Dynamics of magnetization at infinite temperature in a Heisenberg spin chain

Understanding universal aspects of quantum dynamics is an unresolved problem in statistical mechanics. In particular, the spin dynamics of the one-dimensional Heisenberg model were conjectured as to belong to the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang (KPZ) universality class based on the scaling of the infinite-temperature spin-spin correlation function. In a chain of 46 superconducting qubits, we studied the probability distribution of the magnetization transferred across the chain's center, [Formula: see text]. The first two moments of [Formula: see text] show superdiffusive behavior, a hallmark of KPZ universality. However, the third and fourth moments ruled out the KPZ conjecture and allow for evaluating other theories. Our results highlight the importance of studying higher moments in determining dynamic universality classes and provide insights into universal behavior in quantum systems.

Stable quantum-correlated many-body states through engineered dissipation

Engineered dissipative reservoirs have the potential to steer many-body quantum systems toward correlated steady states useful for quantum simulation of high-temperature superconductivity or quantum magnetism. Using up to 49 superconducting qubits, we prepared low-energy states of the transverse-field Ising model through coupling to dissipative auxiliary qubits. In one dimension, we observed long-range quantum correlations and a ground-state fidelity of 0.86 for 18 qubits at the critical point. In two dimensions, we found mutual information that extends beyond nearest neighbors. Lastly, by coupling the system to auxiliaries emulating reservoirs with different chemical potentials, we explored transport in the quantum Heisenberg model. Our results establish engineered dissipation as a scalable alternative to unitary evolution for preparing entangled many-body states on noisy quantum processors.

Integrated assessment of the natural purification capacity of tidal flat for persistent toxic substances and heavy metals in contaminated sediments

Natural purification of pollutants is highly recognized as regulating ecosystem services; however, the purification capacity of tidal flats remains largely unknown and/or unquantified. A 60-day mesocosm transplant experiment was conducted in situ to assess the purification capacity of natural tidal flats. We adopted the advanced sediment quality triad approach, monitoring 10 endpoints, including chemical reduction, toxicity changes, and community recoveries. The results indicated that contaminated sediments rapidly recovered over time, particularly > 50% within a day, then slowly recovered up to ∼ 70% in a given period (60 days). A significant early reduction of parent pollutants was evidenced across all treatments, primarily due to active bacterial decomposition. Notably, the presence of benthic fauna and vegetated halophytes in the treatments significantly enhanced the purification of pollutants in both efficacy and efficiency. A forecast linear modeling further suggested additive effects of biota on the natural purification of tidal flats, reducing a full recovery time from 500 to 300 days. Overall, the triad approach with machine learning practices successfully demonstrated quantitative insight into the integrated assessment of natural purification.

Phytoplankton assemblage responses to massive freshwater inputs and anthropogenic toxic substances contamination in the Geum River Estuary, South Korea

This study investigated the relationships between phytoplankton assemblages and water contamination by persistent toxic substances (PTSs) and nutrients in an estuary with an artificial dam over one year. The distribution of PTSs, including 15 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, 6 alkylphenols, and 8 metal(loid)s, along with nutrients, exhibited relatively high concentrations with irregular temporal fluctuations in the inner estuary. During winter and spring, phytoplankton communities showed good ecological quality, with an average of 28 species and a density of 1750 cells L-1. In contrast, during summer, there was a significant increase in the density of freshwater species (max 45,000 cells L-1). These assemblages were categorized into three seasonal groups, featuring dominant taxa like blue-green algae and diatoms. Temperature and nutrient levels were the principal factors influencing phytoplankton assemblages, while PTSs had a minor impact. Overall, phytoplankton assemblages displayed strong seasonal variation, mainly influenced by freshwater input and nutrient availability.

Distributed quantum sensing of multiple phases with fewer photons

Distributed quantum metrology has drawn intense interest as it outperforms the optimal classical counterparts in estimating multiple distributed parameters. However, most schemes so far have required entangled resources consisting of photon numbers equal to or more than the parameter numbers, which is a fairly demanding requirement as the number of nodes increases. Here, we present a distributed quantum sensing scenario in which quantum-enhanced sensitivity can be achieved with fewer photons than the number of parameters. As an experimental demonstration, using a two-photon entangled state, we estimate four phases distributed 3 km away from the central node, resulting in a 2.2 dB sensitivity enhancement from the standard quantum limit. Our results show that the Heisenberg scaling can be achieved even when using fewer photons than the number of parameters. We believe our scheme will open a pathway to perform large-scale distributed quantum sensing with currently available entangled sources.

Effect-Directed Analysis Combined with Nontarget Screening to Identify Unmonitored Toxic Substances in the Environment

Effect-directed analysis (EDA) combined with nontarget screening (NTS) has established a valuable tool for the identification of unmonitored toxic substances in environmental samples. It consists of three main steps: (1) highly potent fraction identification, (2) toxicant candidate selection, and (3) major toxicant identification. Here, we discuss the methodology, current status, limitations, and future challenges of EDA combined with NTS. This method has been applied successfully to various environmental samples, such as sediments, wastewater treatment plant effluents, and biota. We present several case studies and highlight key results. EDA has undergone significant technological advancements in the past 20 years, with the establishment of its key components: target chemical analysis, bioassays, fractionation, NTS, and data processing. However, it has not been incorporated widely into environmental monitoring programs. We provide suggestions for the application of EDA combined with NTS in environmental monitoring programs and management, with the identification of further research needs.

Numerical investigation of ultrasound focusing and bubble collapse

Ultrasound focusing and microbubble collapse are numerically investigated using a level-set interface tracking method for two-phase flows with multiple interfaces. The computations for ultrasound propagating through a spherical lens demonstrate the ultrasound refraction and pressure intensification at the rear of the lens. The focusing of the initial negative pressure wave through the lens induces a converging flow and the focusing of the subsequent positive pressure wave further intensifies the pressure at the lens. Computations are extended to bubble oscillations near the focusing lens and compared with the no-lens case. The lens not only amplifies the bubble expansion and contraction rates significantly but also generates a larger pressure gradient across the bubble. This ultrasound focusing effect contributes to the asymmetric collapse of the bubble and the formation of a liquid jet that penetrates the bubble. The effects of lens size, initial bubble radius and bubble-lens distance on bubble expansion and liquid jet are further investigated.

Use of molecular composition and compound-specific isotope analysis for source appointment of PAHs in sediments of a highly industrialized area

This study utilized both conventional molecular analysis and compound-specific isotopic techniques to identify the sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments of Ulsan Bay, South Korea. The concentrations of 15 traditional and 11 emerging PAHs were determined in sediments from 21 source sites and 26 bay sites. The concentrations and compositions of traditional and emerging PAHs varied significantly, even at sites close to the source areas. The results obtained from diagnostic ratios and the positive matrix factorization model for source identification were inconsistent in adjacent source areas. The δ13C profiles of PAHs, such as phenanthrene (Phe), fluoranthene (Fl), pyrene (Py), and benz[a]anthracene (BaA) in the sediments showed distinct features depending on the surrounding sources. In urban sediments, lighter δ13CPhe values were observed (mean: -25.1‰), whereas relatively heavier values of δ13CPy were found in petroleum industry areas (mean: -23.4‰). The Bayesian isotope mixing model indicates that the predominant source of PAHs in Ulsan Bay sediments was the petroleum industry (45%), followed by the non-ferrous metals industry (30%), automobile industry (18%), and urban areas (6.3%). These results demonstrated the utility of stable isotopes in assessing the sources and contributions of PAHs in small-scale regions. However, there are still limitations in compound-specific isotope analysis of PAHs, including insufficient end-members for each source, difficulty in analysis, and the influence of non-point sources; thus, further study is needed to expand its application.

Monthly distribution of lipophilic marine biotoxins and associated microalgae in the South Sea Coast of Korea throughout 2021

Aquaculture farms have been established along the South Sea Coast of Korea, supplying most of the seafood consumed domestically. However, annual harmful algal blooms pose a potential threat to seafood safety. This study aimed to determine the spatial and seasonal distributions of 12 lipophilic marine biotoxins (LMTs) in phytoplankton and mussels in the region in 2021. Solid-phase adsorption toxin tracking (SPATT) was used to monitor the cumulative compositions of LMTs in seawater. LMT concentrations were also determined in twelve commercially available species of domestic shellfish to evaluate the potential risks to human health. Gonyaulux spinifera and Dinophysis acuminata, causative microalgae of yessotoxins (YTXs) and pectenotoxins (PTXs), respectively, showed high densities in the region from May to July. This period corresponded to high LMT concentrations in phytoplankton and mussels. Phytoplankton mainly contained PTX-2 and homo-YTX, with a maximum concentration of 2300 ng g-1 wet weight (ww) in May. In contrast, mussels mainly contained homo-YTX and YTX, with a maximum concentration of 1300 ng g-1 ww in July. LMTs-producing microalgae showed low densities and concentrations after July, whereas mussels accumulated toxins until September. In the SPATT sampler, more diverse LMTs were detected than in seawater, phytoplankton, and mussels. For example, dinophysistoxin-1 and azaspiracid-2 were detected only in SPATT. YTXs were detected in domestic seafood samples, including mussels, red scallops, and pen shells, but the concentrations were below the European Food Safety Agency recommended standard of 3.75 mg YTX-eq. kg-1. Moreover, the hazard quotient was less than 100 in all scenarios, indicating that the human health risk was not significant. This study provides valuable data on monthly distribution patterns of LMTs in the South Sea Coast of Korea and can serve as baseline data for future management policies of marine biotoxins.

Identification of Mid-Polar and Polar AhR Agonists in Cetaceans from Korean Coastal Waters: Application of Effect-Directed Analysis with Full-Scan Screening

Major aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists were identified in extracts of blubber, liver, and muscle from six long-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus capensis) and one fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) collected from Korean coastal waters using effect-directed analysis. Results of the H4IIE-luc bioassay indicated that the polar fractions of blubber and liver extracts from the fin whale exhibited relatively high AhR-mediated potencies. Based on full-scan screening with high-resolution mass spectrometry, 37 AhR agonist candidates, spanning four use categories: pharmaceuticals, pesticides, cosmetics, and natural products, were selected. Among these, five polar AhR agonists were newly identified through toxicological confirmation. Concentrations of polar AhR agonists in cetaceans were tissue-specific, with extracts of blubber and liver containing greater concentrations than muscle extracts. Polar AhR agonists with great log KOA values (>5) were found to biomagnify in the marine food chain potentially. Polar AhR agonists contributed 8.9% of the observed AhR-mediated potencies in blubber and 49% in liver. Rutaecarpine and alantolactone contributed significantly to the total AhR-mediated potencies of blubber, whereas hydrocortisone was a major AhR contributor in the liver of the fin whale. This study is the first to identify the tissue-specific accumulation of polar AhR agonists in blubber and liver extracts of cetaceans.

Weekly vs. Bolus Cisplatin Concurrent with Definitive Radiotherapy for Squamous Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

The optimal schedule for cisplatin delivered concurrently with definitive radiation for squamous carcinoma of the head and neck remains controversial. Randomized data in the postoperative setting is mixed, and definitive studies are ongoing. Meanwhile, multiple trials have already compared cetuximab to cisplatin in the definitive setting. Across these trials, the cetuximab dosing was identical, but cisplatin dosing was variable and can be categorized as weekly (40 mg/m2 q1 week) or bolus (100 mg/m2 q3 weeks). We indirectly compared these two cisplatin schedules by performing a network meta-analysis of cetuximab trials.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We performed a PRISMA-concordant systematic review to identify randomized controlled trials comparing cisplatin to cetuximab for patients with non-metastatic squamous carcinoma of the head and neck treated with definitive radiation therapy. Trials of primary surgery, incorporating induction therapy, or mixing other therapeutics were excluded. The analysis was pre-registered with the Open Science Foundation. Individual patient survival data was extracted from the published overall survival curves using a digitizer, and outcomes were validated against published point-estimates and hazard ratios. A random effects Cox regression was used to perform the individual-patient analysis using a one-step approach under a frequentist framework. Random effects were applied to model heterogeneity in the baseline hazard function and treatment effect. Models were adjusted by HPV and smoking status, which were trial-level covariates. Alternative endpoints (DFS, LRF, DM, etc.) were analyzed qualitatively. IRB approval was not required.

RESULTS

Five randomized trials were identified, including 1,678 patients. Bolus cisplatin was delivered to 572 patients in 2 trials, and weekly to 271 in 3 trials. The risk of bias was low. Relative to cetuximab, both bolus and weekly cisplatin reduced the risk of death (adjusted HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.46-0.87, p = 0.004 & HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.37-0.86, p = 0.008 respectively). No interaction was identified between regimen and HPV or smoking status. Between-study heterogeneity (δ2) was 0.148 and treatment effect heterogeneity (τ2) was small (<0.0002). There was no statistical difference in OS between bolus vs. weekly regimens (weekly vs. bolus HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.53-1.52, p = 0.345). This Cox model therefore suggested that on average, the absolute difference in 5-year OS is <1.5% between the two regimens, which was not statistically significant. Secondary endpoints and toxicity were not obviously different by regimen, qualitatively.

CONCLUSION

Using cetuximab as a common reference, there was no significant difference in survival between weekly and bolus cisplatin schedules.

Measurement-induced entanglement and teleportation on a noisy quantum processor

Measurement has a special role in quantum theory1: by collapsing the wavefunction, it can enable phenomena such as teleportation2 and thereby alter the 'arrow of time' that constrains unitary evolution. When integrated in many-body dynamics, measurements can lead to emergent patterns of quantum information in space-time3-10 that go beyond the established paradigms for characterizing phases, either in or out of equilibrium11-13. For present-day noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) processors14, the experimental realization of such physics can be problematic because of hardware limitations and the stochastic nature of quantum measurement. Here we address these experimental challenges and study measurement-induced quantum information phases on up to 70 superconducting qubits. By leveraging the interchangeability of space and time, we use a duality mapping9,15-17 to avoid mid-circuit measurement and access different manifestations of the underlying phases, from entanglement scaling3,4 to measurement-induced teleportation18. We obtain finite-sized signatures of a phase transition with a decoding protocol that correlates the experimental measurement with classical simulation data. The phases display remarkably different sensitivity to noise, and we use this disparity to turn an inherent hardware limitation into a useful diagnostic. Our work demonstrates an approach to realizing measurement-induced physics at scales that are at the limits of current NISQ processors.

Prospective Characterization of Circulating Tumor Cell Kinetics in Patients with Localized Lung Cancer Treated with Radiotherapy or Chemoradiotherapy with Definitive Intent

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To characterize circulating tumor cell (CTC) kinetics in response to definitive therapy in patients with local or locoregional lung cancer and identify CTC kinetic profiles associated with favorable disease response versus progression.

MATERIALS/METHODS

In this single-institution prospective correlative biomarker study, we enrolled patients receiving definitive intent radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy for non-metastatic lung cancer. Blood specimens were collected prior to RT (baseline), during RT and at follow up visits up to 24 months post RT. Subsequent lines of therapy were administered per standard of care. CTCs were captured and enumerated using a previously reported nanotechnology-based assay functionalized with aEpCAM, aHER-2, and aEGFR to facilitate biomimetic cell rolling and dendrimer-mediated multivalent binding. Disease status was assessed per RECIST 1.1 criteria. CTC kinetics and absolute values were analyzed to identify patterns associated with disease control versus progression.

RESULTS

We enrolled 24 patients with median follow up of 8 months corresponding to 114 CTC measurements. Seven patients (30%) had biopsy proven disease, while 17 (70%) were diagnosed based on clinical and radiographic features alone. Nineteen patients (79%) received stereotactic body radiation therapy. Median baseline CTC count was 12.6 CTCs/ml (range 0-290) and post RT decreased to median 4 CTCs/ml (0-42.7). For 95% of patients, a favorable kinetic profile (defined as stable CTC count, decreased CTC count or <24 CTCs/ml corresponding to the 80th percentile) during radiotherapy or at the time of first follow up corresponded to local control of the irradiated lesion. Five patients (20%) experienced disease progression within the follow up period. In the two patients with local progression of the irradiated lesion, the CTC count rose >10 fold prior to or at the time of radiographic detection of progression. In the three patients with systemic progression, CTC count rose 1.46-5.8-fold at the time of progression. Notably, four of the five patients with disease progression did not have initial biopsy confirmation of disease but did experience a CTC elevation at the time of progression.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggests CTCs may serve as a biomarker for response to therapy in patients being treated with RT with definitive intent for early stage or locally advanced lung cancer. This finding is of importance given important limitations in obtaining pathologic confirmation of disease in select patients and challenges distinguishing disease progression versus benign post radiotherapy radiographic changes. Further studies are needed to characterize the predictive and prognostic value of circulating biomarker levels and kinetics in lung cancer.

Historical trends of traditional, emerging, and halogenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons recorded in core sediments from the coastal areas of the Yellow and Bohai seas

Historical trends of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contamination were reconstructed from eleven sediment cores located in intertidal zones of the Yellow and Bohai seas for a period encompassing the last 80 years. The analysis encompassed 15 traditional PAHs (t-PAHs), 9 emerging PAHs (e-PAHs), and 30 halogenated PAHs (Hl-PAHs), including 10 chlorinated PAHs (Cl-PAHs) and 20 brominated PAHs (Br-PAHs). Concentrations of target PAHs were highest in industrial and municipal areas situated along the coast of the Bohai Sea, including Huludao, Yingkou, Tianjin, and Dandong, constituting a substantial mass inventory. All target PAHs showed increasing trends since the 1950s, reflecting the development history of South Korea and China. High molecular weight PAHs accumulated in sampling sites more than low molecular weight PAHs. A positive matrix factorization model showed that the PAH sources were coal and gasoline combustion (35%), diesel combustion (33%), and biomass combustion (32%). Over the last 80 years, the contribution of coal and gasoline combustion increased in all regions, while diesel combustion and biomass combustion varied across regions and over time. Toxicity equivalence values were highest for t-PAHs (>99% contribution), followed by Cl-PAHs, Br-PAHs, and e-PAHs. Concentrations of t-PAHs in Eastern Asia seas have increased since the 1900s, particularly in intertidal areas compared to subtidal areas. The intertidal zone removed 83% of the total flux of PAHs originating from land and thus appears to serve as a buffer zone against marine pollution. Overall, this study provides novel knowledge on the historical trends and sources of PAHs on a large scale, along with insights for future coastal management.

Childhood-Onset Lupus Nephritis in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry: Short-Term Kidney Status and Variation in Care

OBJECTIVE

The goal was to characterize short-term kidney status and describe variation in early care utilization in a multicenter cohort of patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) and nephritis.

METHODS

We analyzed previously collected prospective data from North American patients with cSLE with kidney biopsy-proven nephritis enrolled in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry from March 2017 through December 2019. We determined the proportion of patients with abnormal kidney status at the most recent registry visit and applied generalized linear mixed models to identify associated factors. We also calculated frequency of medication use, both during induction and ever recorded.

RESULTS

We identified 222 patients with kidney biopsy-proven nephritis, with 64% class III/IV nephritis on initial biopsy. At the most recent registry visit at median (interquartile range) of 17 (8-29) months from initial kidney biopsy, 58 of 106 patients (55%) with available data had abnormal kidney status. This finding was associated with male sex (odds ratio [OR] 3.88, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.21-12.46) and age at cSLE diagnosis (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01-1.49). Patients with class IV nephritis were more likely than class III to receive cyclophosphamide and rituximab during induction. There was substantial variation in mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab ever use patterns across rheumatology centers.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort with predominately class III/IV nephritis, male sex and older age at cSLE diagnosis were associated with abnormal short-term kidney status. We also observed substantial variation in contemporary medication use for pediatric lupus nephritis between pediatric rheumatology centers. Additional studies are needed to better understand the impact of this variation on long-term kidney outcomes.

Legacy and novel perfluoroalkyl substances in raw and cooked squids: Perspective from health risks and nutrient benefits

Perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) existed ubiquitously in the environment and could be ingested unconsciously with food which posed a disease risk to human health. Swordtip squid (Uroteuthis edulis) is one of the most popular and highly consumed seafood worldwide, with wide distribution and abundant biomass. Therefore, it is of great importance to the health of the public by reducing the health risks of squid consumption while preserving the benefits of squid to humans. In this study, the PFAS and fatty acids in squids were tested from the southeast coastal regions of China, a major habitat for squids. Relative higher concentrations of PFAS in squid were found in the subtropical zone of southern China (mean: 15.90 ng/g·dw) compared to those of the temperate zone of northern China (mean: 11.77 ng/g·dw). The digestive system had high tissue/muscle ratio (TMR) values, and the pattern of TMR among the same carbon-chain PFAS was similar. Cooking methods have a significant contribution to eliminating PFAS (in squids). PFAS were transferred from squids to other mediums after cooking, so juice and oil should be poured out to minimize PFAS exposure into body. The result showed that squids can be regarded as a healthy food by health benefits associated with fatty acids. Estimated daily intake (EDI) had the highest level in Korea via consuming squids through cooking processes compared with other countries. Based on the assessment of the hazard ratios (HRs), there was a high exposure risk of perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) via taking squids for human health. This research provided the theoretical guidance of aquatic product processing in improving nutrition and reducing harmful substances.

Non-Abelian braiding of graph vertices in a superconducting processor

Indistinguishability of particles is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics¹. For all elementary and quasiparticles observed to date-including fermions, bosons and Abelian anyons-this principle guarantees that the braiding of identical particles leaves the system unchanged^2,3. However, in two spatial dimensions, an intriguing possibility exists: braiding of non-Abelian anyons causes rotations in a space of topologically degenerate wavefunctions^4-8. Hence, it can change the observables of the system without violating the principle of indistinguishability. Despite the well-developed mathematical description of non-Abelian anyons and numerous theoretical proposals^9-22, the experimental observation of their exchange statistics has remained elusive for decades. Controllable many-body quantum states generated on quantum processors offer another path for exploring these fundamental phenomena. Whereas efforts on conventional solid-state platforms typically involve Hamiltonian dynamics of quasiparticles, superconducting quantum processors allow for directly manipulating the many-body wavefunction by means of unitary gates. Building on predictions that stabilizer codes can host projective non-Abelian Ising anyons^9,10, we implement a generalized stabilizer code and unitary protocol²³ to create and braid them. This allows us to experimentally verify the fusion rules of the anyons and braid them to realize their statistics. We then study the prospect of using the anyons for quantum computation and use braiding to create an entangled state of anyons encoding three logical qubits. Our work provides new insights about non-Abelian braiding and, through the future inclusion of error correction to achieve topological protection, could open a path towards fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Distribution, compositional characteristics, and historical pollution records of microplastics in tidal flats of South Korea

Studies on distribution of microplastics (MPs) in sediments of tidal flats are relatively scarce compared to other coastal areas. In this study, spatial and vertical distributions and compositions of MPs in tidal flat sediments along the west coast of Korea were investigated. The abundance of MPs in surface and core sediments ranged from 20 to 325 and 14 to 483 particles per 50 g dry weight, respectively. Polypropylene (51%) and polyethylene (36%) were the most dominant MPs; the size was <0.3 mm, and the shape was mostly fragments followed by fibers. The abundance of MPs in sediments has increased rapidly since the 1970s, and recently showed a slight decrease. Surface morphology of MPs analyzed using a scanning electron microscope revealed that the MPs in tidal flats were highly weathered mechanically and/or oxidatively. The results of this study provide valid baseline data on distributions of MPs in tidal flats.

Distributions and potential sources of polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the glacimarine sediments of Arctic Svalbard

Distribution and sources of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the glacimarine sediments (35 sites) of Svalbard were investigated. PCBs (32 congeners), traditional PAHs (15 homologs), emerging PAHs (11 homologs), and alkylated PAHs (16 homologs) were widely distributed in the Svalbard sediments (ranges: below method detection limit to 20, 21 to 3600, 1.0 to 1400, and 31 to 15,000 ng g^-1 dry weight, respectively). Compositional analysis indicated that PCBs mainly originated from combustion sources, with PAHs being strongly influenced by local sources. Positive matrix factorization analysis showed that PAHs were associated with vehicle and petroleum combustion, coal, and coal combustion. Coal-derived PAHs contributed significantly to the sediments of Van Mijenfjorden. Remnants of coal mining activity trapped in the permafrost appear to enter the coastal environments as ground ice melts. Consequently, PAHs are currently emerging as the most significant contributors to potential risks in the Svalbard ecosystems.

Cooking methods effectively alter perfluoroalkyl substances and nutrients in cultured and wild bullfrogs

The ubiquitous distribution of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) poses a threat to the health of aquatic organisms and humans. Bullfrogs are considered a popular aquatic food product in South China, providing high protein and tasty cuisine; however bullfrogs have been shown to contain significant concentrations of PFASs. However, the risk-benefit ratios of PFASs and nutrient contents in cooked bullfrogs are not well understood. PFASs and nutrients were investigated in raw and cooked specimens of cultured and wild bullfrogs in this study. Novel PFASs showed higher detection levels and accumulation in wild bullfrogs than in cultured bullfrogs. Potential factors such as fat and fatty acid ratio affected PFASs accumulation in different tissues and by different cooking methods of bullfrogs. All cooking methods can reduce PFASs in edible tissues while significantly enhancing the nutritive value index (NVI) compared to raw bullfrogs. Steaming was the most effective way to reduce PFASs (rate of reduction was over 66%) and resulted in a lower risk of contributing to arteriosclerosis than other cooking methods assessed by atherogenicity index (AI) values. Cultured bullfrogs instead of wild bullfrogs were recommended for human consumption, and steaming was regarded as a better cooking method in terms of risk-benefit concerns. Overall, this work provides quantitative analysis of cooking methods that alter PFASs and nutrients in bullfrogs.

Characterization of microalgal toxicants in the sediments from an industrial area: Application of advanced effect-directed analysis with multiple endpoint bioassays

Microalgal toxicants in sediments from an industrialized area (Ulsan Bay) in South Korea were identified using effect-directed analysis (EDA) with full-scan screening analysis (FSA) and microalgal bioassays with multiple endpoints. The growth rate and cell viability of three microalgae (Isochrysis galbana, Dunaliella tertiolecta, and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) were strongly inhibited following exposure to raw organic extracts of sediments from Site D5 (Woehang River). The polar fraction separated using a silica gel column significantly inhibited growth rate, esterase activity, cell membrane intensity, and chlorophyll a autofluorescence. In comparison, non- and mid-polar fractions induced non-toxic or esterase inhibition. Target toxicants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, styrene oligomers, and alkylphenols, were detected at low concentrations (450, 79, and 98 ng g^-1 dw, respectively) in the sediment of D5, indicating the presence of unmonitored toxicants. FSA was performed for the polar fraction using LC-QTOFMS, and 31 candidates of toxicants were selected. Toxicological confirmation was conducted for 7 candidates for which standards are available. Out of these, 2-nitrophenol, 3-nitrophenol, and 4-nitrophenol showed significant microalgal toxicity; however, these compounds did not fully explain the induced toxicity. Overall, combining EDA and FSA with multiple endpoint bioassays demonstrated the benefits of characterizing the microalgal toxicants in the environments.

Methodological advances and future directions of microalgal bioassays for evaluation of potential toxicity in environmental samples: A review

Microalgal bioassays are widely applied to evaluate the potential toxicity of various persistent toxic substances in environmental samples due to multiple advantages, including high sensitivity, short test duration, and cost-effectiveness. Microalgal bioassay is gradually developing in method, and the scope of application to environmental samples is also expanding. Here, we reviewed the published literature on microalgal bioassays for environmental assessments, focusing on types of samples, sample preparation methods, and endpoints, and highlighted key scientific advancements. Bibliographic analysis was performed with the keywords 'microalgae' and 'toxicity' or 'bioassay', and 'microalgal toxicity'; 89 research articles were selected and reviewed. Traditionally, most studies implementing microalgal bioassays focused on water samples (44%) with passive samplers (38%). Studies using the direct exposure method (41%) of injecting microalgae into sampled water mainly evaluated toxic effects by growth inhibition (63%). Recently, various automated sampling techniques, in situ bioanalytical methods with multiple endpoints, and targeted and non-targeted chemical analyses have been applied. More research is needed to identify causative toxicants affecting microalgae and to quantify the cause-effect relationships. This study provides the first comprehensive overview of recent advances in microalgal bioassays performed with environmental samples, suggesting future research directions based on current understanding and limitations.

A high-fidelity quantum matter-link between ion-trap microchip modules

System scalability is fundamental for large-scale quantum computers (QCs) and is being pursued over a variety of hardware platforms. For QCs based on trapped ions, architectures such as the quantum charge-coupled device (QCCD) are used to scale the number of qubits on a single device. However, the number of ions that can be hosted on a single quantum computing module is limited by the size of the chip being used. Therefore, a modular approach is of critical importance and requires quantum connections between individual modules. Here, we present the demonstration of a quantum matter-link in which ion qubits are transferred between adjacent QC modules. Ion transport between adjacent modules is realised at a rate of 2424 s^-1 and with an infidelity associated with ion loss during transport below 7 × 10^-8. Furthermore, we show that the link does not measurably impact the phase coherence of the qubit. The quantum matter-link constitutes a practical mechanism for the interconnection of QCCD devices. Our work will facilitate the implementation of modular QCs capable of fault-tolerant utility-scale quantum computation.

Numerical investigation of two-microbubble collapse and cell deformation in an ultrasonic field

Two-microbubble collapse near a spherical cell in an ultrasonic field is numerically analyzed by extending a level-set method for compressible multiphase flows with bubble and cell multiple interfaces. Computations performed with different bubble-bubble distances and size ratios demonstrate various bubble-bubble interactions, such as bubble coalescence, bubble repulsion and attraction, jet penetration into the bubble, and jet collision. The interactions between collapsing bubbles are found to produce strong liquid jet formation and result in significant cell deformation compared to single-bubble collapse. The optimal bubble-bubble distance and size ratio for cell deformation are presented via contour maps based on extensive computations. The influences of the ultrasonic amplitude and frequency on cell deformation are further investigated.

Formation of robust bound states of interacting microwave photons

Systems of correlated particles appear in many fields of modern science and represent some of the most intractable computational problems in nature. The computational challenge in these systems arises when interactions become comparable to other energy scales, which makes the state of each particle depend on all other particles1. The lack of general solutions for the three-body problem and acceptable theory for strongly correlated electrons shows that our understanding of correlated systems fades when the particle number or the interaction strength increases. One of the hallmarks of interacting systems is the formation of multiparticle bound states2-9. Here we develop a high-fidelity parameterizable fSim gate and implement the periodic quantum circuit of the spin-½ XXZ model in a ring of 24 superconducting qubits. We study the propagation of these excitations and observe their bound nature for up to five photons. We devise a phase-sensitive method for constructing the few-body spectrum of the bound states and extract their pseudo-charge by introducing a synthetic flux. By introducing interactions between the ring and additional qubits, we observe an unexpected resilience of the bound states to integrability breaking. This finding goes against the idea that bound states in non-integrable systems are unstable when their energies overlap with the continuum spectrum. Our work provides experimental evidence for bound states of interacting photons and discovers their stability beyond the integrability limit.

Intraarticular steroids as DMARD-sparing agents for juvenile idiopathic arthritis flares: Analysis of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry

BACKGROUND

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) who achieve a drug free remission often experience a flare of their disease requiring either intraarticular steroids (IAS) or systemic treatment with disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). IAS offer an opportunity to recapture disease control and avoid exposure to side effects from systemic immunosuppression. We examined a cohort of patients treated with IAS after drug free remission and report the probability of restarting systemic treatment within 12 months.

METHODS

We analyzed a cohort of patients from the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry who received IAS for a flare after a period of drug free remission. Historical factors and clinical characteristics and of the patients including data obtained at the time of treatment were analyzed.

RESULTS

We identified 46 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Of those with follow up data available 49% had restarted systemic treatment 6 months after IAS injection and 70% had restarted systemic treatment at 12 months. The proportion of patients with prior use of a biologic DMARD was the only factor that differed between patients who restarted systemic treatment those who did not, both at 6 months (79% vs 35%, p < 0.01) and 12 months (81% vs 33%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

While IAS are an option for all patients who flare after drug free remission, it may not prevent the need to restart systemic treatment. Prior use of a biologic DMARD may predict lack of success for IAS. Those who previously received methotrexate only, on the other hand, are excellent candidates for IAS.

Early on-treatment tumor growth rate (EOT-TGR) determines treatment outcomes of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer patients treated with programmed cell death protein 1 axis inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Tumor growth rate (TGR), denoted as percentage change in tumor size per month, is a well-established indicator of tumor growth kinetics. The predictive value of early on-treatment TGR (EOT-TGR) for immunotherapy remains unclear. We sought to establish and validate the association of EOT-TGR with treatment outcomes in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) undergoing anti-PD-1/PD-L1 (programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1) therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This bicenter retrospective cohort study included a training cohort, a contemporaneously treated internal validation cohort, and an external validation cohort. Computed tomography images were retrieved to calculate EOT-TGR, denoted as tumor burden change per month during a period between baseline and the first imaging evaluation after immunotherapy. Kaplan-Meier methodology and Cox regression analysis were conducted for survival analyses.

RESULTS

In the pooled cohort (n = 172), 125 patients (72.7%) were males; median age at diagnosis was 58 (range 28-79) years. Based on the training cohort, we determined the optimal cut-off value for EOT-TGR as 10.4%/month. Higher EOT-TGR was significantly associated with inferior overall survival [OS; hazard ratio (HR) 2.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.47-5.83; P = 0.002], worse progression-free survival (PFS; HR 2.44, 95% CI 1.46-4.08; P = 0.001), and lower objective response rate (3.3% versus 20.9%; P = 0.040) and durable clinical benefit rate (6.7% versus 41.9%; P = 0.001). Results were reproducible in the two validation cohorts for OS and PFS. Among 43 patients who had a best response of progressive disease in the training cohort, those with high EOT-TGR had worse OS (HR 2.64; P = 0.041) and were more likely to progress due to target lesions at the first tumor evaluation (85.2% versus 0.0%; P <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher EOT-TGR was associated with inferior OS and immunotherapeutic response in patients with aNSCLC undergoing anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. This easy-to-calculate radiologic biomarker may help evaluate the abilities of immunotherapy to prolong survival and assist in tailoring patients' management.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04722406; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04722406.

Noise-resilient edge modes on a chain of superconducting qubits

Inherent symmetry of a quantum system may protect its otherwise fragile states. Leveraging such protection requires testing its robustness against uncontrolled environmental interactions. Using 47 superconducting qubits, we implement the one-dimensional kicked Ising model, which exhibits nonlocal Majorana edge modes (MEMs) with ℤ 2 parity symmetry. We find that any multiqubit Pauli operator overlapping with the MEMs exhibits a uniform late-time decay rate comparable to single-qubit relaxation rates, irrespective of its size or composition. This characteristic allows us to accurately reconstruct the exponentially localized spatial profiles of the MEMs. Furthermore, the MEMs are found to be resilient against certain symmetry-breaking noise owing to a prethermalization mechanism. Our work elucidates the complex interplay between noise and symmetry-protected edge modes in a solid-state environment.

Change in adsorption behavior of aquatic humic substances on microplastic through biotic and abiotic aging processes

Interactions between microplastics (MPs) and humic substances (HS) are inevitable in MP-contaminated aquatic environment because of the ubiquitous presence of HS. In this study, we explored the effects of abiotic and biotic aging processes on the adsorption behavior of aquatic HS on MPs. Aging experiments were conducted using polyethylene (PE) as a representative MP, in which UV irradiation and microbial incubation were applied for 15 to 18 days to mimic the natural abiotic and biotic aging processes. Surface modifications after the aging treatments were evidenced by the appearance of CO, CO, O-C=O, and -OH groups; the formation of grooves on UV-aged PE; and the formation of biofilms on the surface of bio-aged PE. The specific surface areas of both treated PE MPs increased with aging. Higher HS adsorption on PE surface was observed after the aging treatments, with a highest kinetic rate for UV-aged PE than that for bio-aged PE. The adsorption isotherm models revealed that the aging processes enhanced the HS adsorption tendency, as evidenced by the highest adsorption capacity for UV-aged PE (~187 μg C/m²), followed by bio-aged PE (~157 μg C/m²) and pristine PE (~87.5 μg C/m²) for a comparable extended aging period (15-18 days). The difference was more pronounced at a lower pH. The enhanced HS adsorption was mainly attributed to the formation of hydrogen bonds, whereas HS adsorption on pristine PE was dominated by hydrophobic interactions and weak van der Waals interactions. Among the two identified fluorescent components (terrestrial humic-like C1 and protein-like C2), C1 exhibited a higher affinity for adsorption onto PE irrespective of aging. Our findings provide insights into the substantial changes that occur in the interactions between MPs and aquatic organic matter with aging processes, which may alter the fate and environmental impacts of MPs in many aquatic systems.

Molecular Characterization of Estrogen Receptor Agonists during Sewage Treatment Processes Using Effect-Directed Analysis Combined with High-Resolution Full-Scan Screening

Endocrine-disrupting potential was evaluated during the sewage treatment process using in vitro bioassays. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-, androgen receptor (AR)-, glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-, and estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated activities were assessed over five steps of the treatment process. Bioassays of organic extracts showed that AhR, AR, and GR potencies tended to decrease through the sewage treatment process, whereas ER potencies did not significantly decrease. Bioassays on reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography fractions showed that F5 (log K_OW 2.5-3.0) had great ER potencies. Full-scan screening of these fractions detected two novel ER agonists, arenobufagin and loratadine, which are used pharmaceuticals. These compounds accounted for 3.3-25% of the total ER potencies and 4% of the ER potencies in the final effluent. The well-known ER agonists, estrone and 17β-estradiol, accounted for 60 and 17% of the ER potencies in F5 of the influent and primary treatment, respectively. Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry analysis showed that various molecules were generated during the treatment process, especially CHO and CHOS (C: carbon, H: hydrogen, O: oxygen, and S: sulfur). This study documented that widely used pharmaceuticals are introduced into the aquatic environments without being removed during the sewage treatment process.

Entangling three identical particles via spatial overlap

Quantum correlations between identical particles are at the heart of quantum technologies. Several studies with two identical particles have shown that the spatial overlap and indistinguishability between the particles are necessary for generating bipartite entanglement. On the other hand, researches on the extension to more than two-particle systems are limited by the practical difficulty to control multiple identical particles in laboratories. In this work, we propose schemes to generate two fundamental classes of genuine tripartite entanglement, i.e., GHZ and W classes, which are experimentally demonstrated using linear optics with three identical photons. We also show that the tripartite entanglement class decays from the genuine entanglement to the full separability as the particles become more distinguishable from each other. Our results support the prediction that particle indistinguishability is a fundamental element for entangling identical particles.

Identification of AhR agonists in sediments of the Bohai and Yellow Seas using advanced effect-directed analysis and in silico prediction

Novel aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists were identified in coastal sediments in the Yellow and Bohai Seas by use of a combination of effect-directed analysis (EDA) and in silico prediction. A total of 125 sediments were screened for AhR-mediated potencies using H4IIE-luc bioassay. Great potencies were observed in organic extracts, mid-polar fraction (F2), and subfractions of F2 (F2.6-F2.9) of sediments collected from Nantong, Qinhuangdao, and Yancheng. Less than 15% AhR potencies could be explained by detected dioxin-like PAHs. Full-scan screening analysis was conducted for the more potent fractions using GC-QTOFMS to investigate the presence of unmonitored AhR agonists. A five-step prioritization strategy was applied; 92 candidate compounds satisfied all criteria. Among these chemicals, thirteen were evaluated for AhR efficacy. Six compounds; benz[b]anthracene, 6-methylchrysene, 2-methylbenz[a]anthracene, 1-methylbenz[a]anthracene, 1,12-dimethylbenzo[c]phenanthrene, and indeno[1,2,3-cd]fluoranthene, exhibited significant AhR-mediated efficacies. 1,12-dimethylbenzo[c]phenanthrene and indeno[1,2,3-cd]fluoranthene were identified as novel AhR agonists. Potency balance analysis showed that the six newly identified AhR agonists explained 0.4-100% of the total AhR-mediated potencies determined. Overall, combining EDA and in silico prediction applied in this study demonstrated the benefits of assessing the potential toxic effects of previously unidentified AhR agonists in sediments from the coasts of China and Korea.

Best available technique for the recovery of marine benthic communities in a gravel shore after the oil spill: A mesocosm-based sediment triad assessment

Ecotoxicological effects of spilled oils are well documented, but study of recovery of marine benthic communities is limited. Long-term recovery of hard bottom communities during physical and biological remediations after a spill was monitored. A 60-day experiment was conducted using a mesocosm with monitoring of eight endpoints by use of the sediment quality triad (SQT). First, physical treatment of hot water + high pressure flushing maximally removed residual oils (max=93%), showing the greatest recovery among SQT variables (mean=72%). Physical cleanup generally involved adverse effects such as depression of the microphytobenthic community during the initial period. Next, biological treatments, such as fertilizer, emulsifier, enzyme and augmentation of the microbes, all facilitated removal of oil (max=66%) enhancing ecological recovery. Analysis of the microbiome confirmed that oil-degrading bacteria, such as Dietzia sp. and Rosevarius sp. were present. A mixed bioremediation, including fertilizer + multi-enzyme + microbes (FMeM) maximized efficacy of remediation as indicated by SQT parameters (mean=47%). Natural attenuation with "no treatment" showed comparable recovery to other remediations. Considering economic availability, environmental performance, and technical applicability, of currently available techniques, combined treatments of physical removal via hand wiping followed by FMeM could be most effective for recovery of the rocky shore benthic community.

Evaluation of ecotoxicological effects associated with coastal sediments of the Yellow Sea large marine ecosystem using the marine copepod Tigriopus japonicus

A copepod bioassay with Tigriopus japonicus was applied to evaluate the relative ecotoxicity of sediments in the Yellow and Bohai seas, and contributions of individual PAHs to copepod toxicity were evaluated. Mean toxicity was greatest in the Yellow Sea of China, followed by the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea of Korea. Elevated concentrations of sedimentary PAHs, alkylphenols, and styrene oligomers back-supported the significant toxicities observed in bioassay. Copepod toxicity in relation to PAHs indicated the greatest contribution by indeno[1,2,3-c,d]pyrene. However, lacked contribution by PAHs, viz., 2.4 and 3.0 % for the total immobilization and mortality, respectively, indicated a large proportion of unknown toxicants being widely distributed along the Yellow Sea Large Marine Ecosystem (YSLME) coastline. Overall, the present study provides useful baseline information for evaluating the potential sedimentary toxicants, with emphasizing further investigation to identify the unknown toxicants at an LME scale, and elsewhere.

Spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of yessotoxins and pectenotoxins in phytoplankton and shellfish collected from the southern coast of South Korea

The distribution characteristics of lipophilic marine biotoxins (LMTs), such as yessotoxins (YTXs) and pectenotoxins (PTXs) in phytoplankton, mussels, and commercial seafood were determined for the southern coast of South Korea. Gonyaulax spinifera and Dinophysis acuminata, which are the causative microalgae of YTXs and PTXs, were recorded during summer. Homo-YTX and PTX-2 were predominantly detected in phytoplankton (max: 5.7 μg g^-1 ww), whereas only YTXs were detected in mussels (max: 1.1 μg g^-1 ww). LMT concentrations in mussels were positively correlated with those in phytoplankton. However, there was a 1-month time gap in maximum LMT concentrations between mussels and phytoplankton. Homo-YTX was detected in commercial seafood, including red scallop and comb pen shell. However, homo-YTX concentrations in shellfish were below the recommended value of the European Food Safety Authority (3.75 mg YTX equivalents kg^-1); thus, the consumption of this seafood was not considered to be a significant risk for human health.

Instrumental and bioanalytical characterization of dioxin-like activity in sediments from the Yeongsan River and the Nakdong River estuaries, South Korea

In the present study, we investigated the contamination status of dioxin-like chemicals (DLCs) and potential toxic effects associated with river and coastal sediments from two large estuaries of South Korea. Sediments collected from the Yeongsan River and the Nakdong River estuaries were analyzed for several DLCs, including polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (co-PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Greater concentrations of target DLCs (except for PCDDs in Nakdong River) were found in the inland creeks with decreasing trends towards estuarine and coastal areas in both regions. The result indicated that the elevated DLCs were attributable to the surrounding land use activities, such as point sources of industrial and municipal areas from the inland regions. Principal component analysis and positive matrix factorization model revealed that major sources of PCDD/Fs and PAHs in sediments were fly ash and dust, and petroleum and diesel emission, respectively. The dioxin-like activities of the sediments ranged from 0.98 to 88% of the maximal induction elicited by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, which generally explained the sedimentary contamination by the target DLCs. Dioxin-like activity in sediments from the artificial lake and inland creek of the Nakdong River Estuary was mostly explained by the targeted DLCs (~75%). However, the contribution of known DLCs from the sediments of the Yeongsan River Estuary was relatively low (~35%) compared to that of the Nakdong River Estuary, suggesting the presence of unknown DLCs in sediments. Overall, the distribution of DLCs quite varied by region, generally reflecting the difference in the surrounding land use activity. In the future, it is needed to study the distribution, sources, and potential ecological effects of unknown toxic substances in coastal sediments.

10 years long-term assessment on characterizing spatiotemporal trend and source apportionment of metal(loid)s in terrestrial soils along the west coast of South Korea

Long-term trends in the spatial distributions and sources of metal(loid)s in soils adjacent to the west coastal areas of South Korea have been systematically investigated for 10 years (2010-2019). Monitoring in 17 sites clearly showed site- and region-specific distributions, being associated with land use type (significant differences, as road > agriculture > wild) (P < 0.05), rather than temporal variation. The great concentrations of all metal(loid)s were found near Lake Shihwa (LS) and Geum River (GG), near the road, indicating that transportation activity was the main source of metal(loid)s contamination in soil. Especially, Cd (0.5 mg kg^-1), Hg (0.04 mg kg^-1), Pb (65 mg kg^-1), and Zn (184 mg kg^-1), related to the transportation activity near the road, showed twice greater than other land use types, on average. The concentration of metal(loid)s in each site and with the same land use type did not greatly vary over the years, with no significant annual difference (P > 0.05). The degree of metal(loid)s contamination compared to the background levels was identified in the order of Pb > Zn > Cr > Cu > As>Cd > Ni > Hg, with the contaminated hotspots mostly in LS or GG. The potential ecological risk was evidenced for Cd and Hg, but such a trend was temporally irregular over the years, indicating site-specificity. The sources of metal(loid)s were carefully determined as natural (20%), fuel combustion & agricultural pollution (43%), and vehicular emissions (37%) using the Positive Matrix Factorization model. The relative contribution of each source to contamination over the last decade was found to be similar, supporting that site-dependent lesser variation in metal(loid)s contamination in the coastal areas of South Korea. Overall, the distribution of metal(loid)s in the soil near the west coastal areas over the last decade largely depended on land use activities, and contamination degree was associated with non-point sources, such as transportation and fuel combustion.

Perfluoroalkyl substances in marine food webs from South China Sea: Trophic transfer and human exposure implication

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are known to be persistent and toxic, and can be accumulated and trophic magnified in the environments. PFASs are widely distributed, and their coastal input poses a threat to the health of aquatic organisms and local residents. In present study, 17 PFASs including one emerging polyether substitute in water, sediment, and organisms were investigated from the South China Sea. Perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) was predominant in water, of which concentration ranged from ND to 10.26 ng/L, with a mean of 5.21 ng/L. Similar to sediment and organisms, PFBA was the substance with the highest concentration detected among PFASs. This result seemingly indicated that use of short-chain PFASs as substitutes for long-chain PFASs in recent years. Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) of PFASs were estimated in the marine food web. TMFs > 1 was observed only in perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), indicating a biomagnification potential of PFOS in the given ecosystem. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of PFOS and PFOA were most prevalent in mollusk, whereas the EDI of PFBA was greater in fish and shrimp. The hazard ratio (HR) reported for seven dominant PFASs were lower than 1, which suggests that PFASs via seafood consumption would not cause significant health risk to local residents.

POS1247 THE EFFECT OF IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENTS ON ANTIBODY FORMATION AFTER COVID-19 VACCINATION IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS PATIENTS

Background

There is still controversy about the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination and its extent in lowering immunogenicity of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients. The guideline in whether immunosuppressive agents need to be discontinued before the vaccination is continuously updated because it is considered to lower immunogenicity. Furthermore, there is great discussion on the effectiveness of the COVID-19 booster vaccine and interest in antibody generation in different types of vaccine, as in South Korea there are many patients who were prescribed the mRNA booster vaccine after two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 vaccine.

Objectives

Thus, we investigated the differences of antibody production between patients who received only two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 and those who received the mRNA booster vaccine. Also, antibody production under different types of immunosuppressive agents was analyzed.

Methods

From October 14, 2021 to January 21, 2022 at a tertiary referral center, two patient groups diagnosed with RA were studied prospectively; one group that completed 1st and 2nd doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 vaccine, second group that completed mRNA booster vaccine as well as two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 vaccine. SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing on the semiquantitative anti-SARS-CoV-2 S enzyme immunoassay was done, and differences in antibody titers were analyzed in patients who received different immunosuppressive agents such as csDMARD, TNF inhibitor, JAK inhibitor, Tocilizumab, Abatacept and Corticosteroid. Statistical analysis with a multivariate logistic regression model was performed.

Results

In a total of 261 patients, 153 patients had completed two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19, 108 patients had completed third mRNA booster vaccine. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibody positive rate (titer>0.8U/mL) was 97%(149/153) and 99%(107/108) respectively, and only 5 patients showed negative result. In the aspect of high antibody titer(>250U/mL), which is the upper limit of the RBD antibody immunoassay, the result showed rate of 31% (47/153) in the non-booster group and 94%(102/108) in the booster group respectively.

Among the different immunosuppressive agents and other clinical aspects, multivariate analysis revealed that corticosteroid use (OR 0.91; 95% CI: 0.86-0.98), older age(OR 4.33; 95% CI: 1.34-13.91), and male gender(OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.16-0.75) were significantly associated with low rate of high antibody titer.

Furthermore, out of 14 patients who underwent antibody test twice before and after the mRNA booster vaccine, other than four patients who already showed high titer of >250U/mL before the mRNA booster vaccine, 10 patients showed an increase in titer after the booster vaccine and 7 patients were acquired high titer of >250U/mL.

Figure 1.

Anti-SARS-CoV RBD antibody titer of two groups

Table 1.

Analysis of immunosuppressive agents and other clinical aspects for high antibody titer(>250U/mL) after two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19

Univariate analysisMultivariate analysisParameterOR95% CIp valueOR95% CIp valueClinical features Age0.9170.860-0.9780.0080.9170.857-0.9810.012 Sex3.6741.206-11.1910.0224.3301.348-13.9120.014 DAS 281.1440.670-1.9500.622 Duration0.9300.830-1.0430.214Medications csDMARD1.2730.639-2.5331.273 TNF inhibitor2.2110.795-6.1450.128 JAK inhibitor0.6650.275-1.6070.365 Abatacept0.3680.038-3.6020.391 Tocilizumab1.2640.438-3.6480.665 Corticosteroid0.4720.235-0.9490.0350.3490.163-0.7480.007Medication dose Methotrexate0.9930.919-1.0720.855 Corticosteroid0.8490.719-1.0030.054

Conclusion

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibody positive rate was 97% or more regardless of the mRNA booster vaccination. However, patients who received the mRNA booster vaccine after two doses of ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 vaccine showed high antibody titer (>250U/mL) three times more than those who did not receive the booster shot.

Our findings also showed that corticosteroid use, old age, and male gender is significantly associated with low rate of acquiring high antibody titer.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0476 PREDICTIVE FACTORS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN PATIENTS WITH IMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIA

Background

Patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) have a risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We sought to examine the clinical characteristics of patients with primary ITP who later developed SLE, and identified the risk factors for the development of SLE.

Objectives

We retrospectively examined patients who were diagnosed with primary ITP at a tertiary hospital between August 2001 and November 2019. We compared the clinical characteristics according to the development of SLE. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with the development of SLE.

Methods

Of 130 patients with primary ITP, 10 (7.7%) were later diagnosed with SLE during follow-up (median, 30 months [IQR, 15.5–105]). The presence of skin bleeding, organ bleeding, lymphopenia, anemia, and positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer (> 1:160) were more common among patients who later developed SLE than did those who did not develop SLE. Multivariate analysis showed that young age (< 40 years; odds ratio [OR], 8.359 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.230–56.793]; p = 0.033), organ bleeding (OR, 18.349 [95% CI, 2.771–121.517]; p = 0.003), and ANA positivity (>1:160; OR, 7.692 [95% CI, 1.482–39.910]; p = 0.015) were significantly associated with the development of SLE.

Results

Young age (< 40 years), organ bleeding, and ANA positivity (> 1:160) were risk factors for the development of SLE in patients with primary ITP.

Conclusion

These results suggest that continued follow-up for the detection of SLE development is needed for patients with ITP, particularly those with young age, ANA positivity, or organ bleeding.

References

[1]Zhu, Fang-Xiao, et al. “Risk of systemic lupus erythematosus in patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: a population-based cohort study.” Annals of the rheumatic diseases 79.6 (2020): 793-799.

Table 1.

Factors associated with the development of SLE in patients with primary ITP

UnivariateMultivariateOR95% CIP valueOR95% CIP valueYoung agea5.4441.332–22.2500.0188.3591.230–56.7930.033Female4.3330.530–35.4220.17BMI0.8730.717–1.0700.20Skin bleeding8.4191.034–68.5330.046Mucosa bleeding1.2500.247–6.3300.79Organ bleeding14.8643.633–60.815< 0.00118.3492.771–121.5170.003Platelet counts0.9110.828–1.0020.06ANA positivityb16.5003.984–68.341< 0.0017.6921.482–39.9100.015Neutropeniac2.1110.229–19.4990.51Lymphopeniad4.8461.189–19.7590.028Anemiae10.1182.044–50.0910.005

SLE: systemic lupus erythematosus, ITP: immune thrombocytopenia, BMI: body mass index, ANA: antinuclear antibody, OR: odds ratio, CI: confidence interval.

aYoung age = age < 40 years

bANA positivity ≥ 1:160

cNeutropenia = Absolute neutrophil count < 1500 μL

dLymphopenia = Absolute lymphocyte count < 1500 μL

eAnemia = Hemoglobin < 12 g/dL

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0456 DISEASE FLARE OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE ON DIALYSIS

Background

The systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activity in patients with lupus nephritis (LN) generally declines after the initiation of renal replacement therapy (RRT); this is known as the “burn out” phenomenon that possibly occurs due to the suppression of cellular and humoral immunity in the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) state and elimination of disease pathogenic factor by dialysis [1-4]. However, several studies showed that SLE flares could occur even during RRT [5-8]. Nevertheless, the details of disease flares of SLE in patients under dialysis have not been studied yet.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the clinical features, risk factors, and treatment details of SLE patients experiencing disease flare under RRT.

Methods

The medical records of SLE patients who received dialysis at two tertiary referral hospitals in Seoul and Ulsan, South Korea were reviewed. All patients in this study were either clinically or histologically diagnosed with LN

Results

Of a total of 121 patients with SLE on dialysis, 96 (79.3%) were on hemodialysis (HD) and 25 (20.6%) were on peritoneal dialysis (PD). During a median follow-up of 45 months (IQR, 23–120) after the initiation of dialysis, 32 (26.4%) patients experienced SLE flare (HD, n = 25; PD, n = 7). The most common features of SLE flare were hematologic (40.6%) and constitutional manifestations (40.6%). Treatments for disease flares were based on corticosteroids, and 11 (34.3%) patients required additional immunosuppressants including cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil. There was no case of severe adverse events related to medication. non-renal SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score before dialysis initiation (HR 1.235; 95% CI, 1.122–1.359; P = 0.001) was a significant risk factor for disease flare during dialysis.

Table 1.

Multivariable analysis of factors associated with SLE flare under dialysis

Hazard ratio95% CIP-valueNon-renal SLEDAI at the initiation of dialysis1.2351.122–1.3590.001Hematologic manifestation prior to dialysis1.2560.690–2.8260.150Cumulative amount of steroid during 1 year prior to the initiation of dialysis1.0400.995–1.0870.086Dialysis modality: hemodialysis0.7660.262–2.2430.630

Conclusion

More than one-quarter of SLE patients experienced disease flare during dialysis, which most commonly had hematologic manifestations. Continued follow-up and appropriate treatments including immunosuppressants should be considered for patients with SLE under dialysis.

References

[1]Coplon NS, Diskin CJ, Petersen J, Swenson RS. The Long-Term Clinical Course of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in End-Stage Renal Disease. New England Journal of Medicine 1983;308:186-90.

[2]Lee P-T, Fang H-C, Chen C-L, Chiou Y-H, Chou K-J, Chung H-M. Poor prognosis of end-stage renal disease in systemic lupus erythematosus: a cohort of Chinese patients. Lupus 2003;12:827-32.

[3]Pahl MV, Gollapudi S, Sepassi L, Gollapudi P, Elahimehr R, Vaziri ND. Effect of end-stage renal disease on B-lymphocyte subpopulations, IL-7, BAFF and BAFF receptor expression. Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation 2010;25:205-12.

[4]Ribeiro FM, Fabris CL, Bendet I, Lugon JR. Survival of lupus patients on dialysis: a Brazilian cohort. Rheumatology 2013;52:494-500.

[5]Okano K, Yumura W, Nitta K et al. Analysis of Lupus Activity in End-Stage Renal Disease Treated by Hemodialysis. Internal Medicine 2001;40:598-602.

[6]Barrera-Vargas A, Quintanar-Martínez M, Merayo-Chalico J, Alcocer-Varela J, Gómez-Martín D. Risk factors for systemic lupus erythematosus flares in patients with end-stage renal disease: a case–control study. Rheumatology 2015:kev349.

[7]Cucchiari D, Graziani G, Ponticelli C. The dialysis scenario in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation 2014;29:1507-13.

[8]Kang S-H, Chung B-H, Choi S-R et al. Comparison of Clinical Outcomes by Different Renal Replacement Therapy in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease Secondary to Lupus Nephritis. The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine 2011;26:60.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1273 MACROPHAGE ACTIVATION SYNDROME IN RHEUMATIC DISEASE: CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND PROGNOSIS OF 20 PATIENTS

Background

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a hyperinflammatory condition that is known to be secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in patients with rheumatic disease.

Objectives

The aim of study was to evaluate the clinical manifestations and outcomes in patients with MAS with rheumatic disease.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 20 adult patients who were diagnosed with MAS from 2012 to 2020. MAS was classified according to the HLH-2004 criteria. Patients’ information, including clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment regimens, was collected, and the overall survival rate was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Twenty patients (18 women, 35.6 ± 18.3 years) who met the HLH-2004 criteria also fulfilled the 2016 EULAR/ACR/PRINTO classification criteria for MAS, and HScore was higher than 169 (median, 238.5). Fourteen patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and 6 patients with adult-onset Still’s disease were included. All patients were treated initially with corticosteroids, and 16 patients required additional immunosuppressants. The overall survival at 3 and 6 months was 75.2% and 64.3%. In survivors, renal impairment was less common (23.1% versus 42.9%, p = 0.007), the levels of AST (202.0 versus 72.0 IU/L, p = 0.006) and LDH (1144.0 versus 343.0IU/L, p = 0.001), and platelet count (90.0 versus 46.0 × 109/L, p = 0.016) were higher in compared to non-survivors. Nine patients had opportunistic infections, five of whom died during admission.

Conclusion

The mortality of patients with MAS remains high. Renal impairment, levels of AST and LDH, and platelet count might be associated with prognosis.

Table 1.

Treatments and management characteristics of patients with MAS

No.Age/sexDiseaseDisease duration (months)1st Treatment (corticosteroids)2nd Treatment3rd TreatmentCombined infectionAlive/dead119/FSLE11 mg/kgIVIG + PPTCZ, RTXBacteremiaDead220/MSLE01 mg/kg---Alive320/FAOSD11 mg/kgVP16--Alive422/FSLE1100 mgIVIG + PP-PneumoniaDead522/FAOSD0500 mgIVIG--Alive623/FSLE1821 mg/kg---Alive723/FSLE411 mg/kg---Alive830/FSLE1461 mg/kgIVIGCsA-Alive932/FSLE1271 mg/kgIVIG + PPCsA, TCZPneumoniaAlive1035/FAOSD01 mg/kgCsA-Viral infectionAlive1137/FSLE651 mg/kgCsA, VP16-BacteremiaAlive1238/FSLE01 mg/kgIVIG + PPRTX-Dead1340/FAOSD00.5 mg/kgCsA--Alive1443/FSLE601 mg/kgIVIG + PPTCZ, RTX, CsA,PCP,DeadVP16, IFXViral infection1549/FSLE01 mg/kgCYC-BacteremiaAlive1651/FAOSD01 mg/kg---Alive1757/FSLE01 mg/kgIVIG + PPCsA, VP16Fungal infectionDead1861/FSLE21 mg/kgIVIG + PPTCZ-Dead1968/FSLE21 mg/kgIVIG + PPCsAFungal infectionAlive2070/MAOSD01 mg/kgIVIG + PPCsA, VP16Fungal infectionDead

SLE: Systemic lupus erythematosus, IVIG: Intravenous immunoglobulin, PP: Plasmapheresis, TCZ: Tocilizumab, RTX: Rituximab, AOSD: Adult-onset still’s disease, VP16: Etoposide, PCP: Pneumocystis pneumonia, CsA: Cyclosporin, IFX: Infliximab, MCTD: Mixed connective tissue disease.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared