Programmable Retention Characteristics in MoS2-Based Atomristors for Neuromorphic and Reservoir Computing Systems

In this study, we investigate the coexistence of short- and long-term memory effects owing to the programmable retention characteristics of a two-dimensional Au/MoS2/Au atomristor device and determine the impact of these effects on synaptic properties. This device is constructed using bilayer MoS2 in a crossbar structure. The presence of both short- and long-term memory characteristics is proposed by using a filament model within the bilayer transition-metal dichalcogenide. Short- and long-term properties are validated based on programmable multilevel retention tests. Moreover, we confirm various synaptic characteristics of the device, demonstrating its potential use as a synaptic device in a neuromorphic system. Excitatory postsynaptic current, paired-pulse facilitation, spike-rate-dependent plasticity, and spike-number-dependent plasticity synaptic applications are implemented by operating the device at a low-conductance level. Furthermore, long-term potentiation and depression exhibit symmetrical properties at high-conductance levels. Synaptic learning and forgetting characteristics are emulated using programmable retention properties and composite synaptic plasticity. The learning process of artificial neural networks is used to achieve high pattern recognition accuracy, thereby demonstrating the suitability of the use of the device in a neuromorphic system. Finally, the device is used as a physical reservoir with time-dependent inputs to realize reservoir computing by using short-term memory properties. Our study reveals that the proposed device can be applied in artificial intelligence-based computing applications by utilizing its programmable retention properties.

Search for exotic decays of the Higgs boson to a pair of pseudoscalars in the μμbb and ττbb final states

A search for exotic decays of the Higgs boson (H ) with a mass of 125Ge V to a pair of light pseudoscalars a 1 is performed in final states where one pseudoscalar decays to two b quarks and the other to a pair of muons or τ leptons. A data sample of proton-proton collisions at s = 13 Te V corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 138fb - 1 recorded with the CMS detector is analyzed. No statistically significant excess is observed over the standard model backgrounds. Upper limits are set at 95% confidence level (CL ) on the Higgs boson branching fraction to μ μ b b and to τ τ b b , via a pair of a 1 s. The limits depend on the pseudoscalar mass m a 1 and are observed to be in the range (0.17-3.3) × 10 - 4 and (1.7-7.7) × 10 - 2 in the μ μ b b and τ τ b b final states, respectively. In the framework of models with two Higgs doublets and a complex scalar singlet (2HDM+S), the results of the two final states are combined to determine upper limits on the branching fraction B ( H → a 1 a 1 → ℓ ℓ b b ) at 95% CL , with ℓ being a muon or a τ lepton. For different types of 2HDM+S, upper bounds on the branching fraction B ( H → a 1 a 1 ) are extracted from the combination of the two channels. In most of the Type II 2HDM+S parameter space, B ( H → a 1 a 1 ) values above 0.23 are excluded at 95% CL for m a 1 values between 15 and 60Ge V .

Injectable composite hydrogels embedded with gallium-based liquid metal particles for solid breast cancer treatment via chemo-photothermal combination

Photothermal therapy (PTT) holds great promise as a cancer treatment modality by generating localized heat at the tumor site. Among various photothermal agents, gallium-based liquid metal (LM) has been widely used as a new photothermal-inducible metallic compound due to its structural transformability. To overcome limitations of random aggregation and dissipation of administrated LM particles into a human body, we developed LM-containing injectable composite hydrogel platforms capable of achieving spatiotemporal PTT and chemotherapy. Eutectic gallium-indium LM particles were first stabilized with 1,2-Distearoyl-sn‑glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE) lipids. They were then incorporated into an interpenetrating hydrogel network composed of thiolated gelatin conjugated with 6-mercaptopurine (MP) chemodrug and poly(ethylene glycol)-diacrylate. The resulted composite hydrogel exhibited sufficient capability to induce MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell death through a multi-step mechanism: (1) hyperthermic cancer cell death due to temperature elevation by near-infrared laser irradiation via LM particles, (2) leakage of glutathione (GSH) and cleavage of disulfide bonds due to destruction of cancer cells. As a consequence, additional chemotherapy was facilitated by GSH, leading to accelerated release of MP within the tumor microenvironment. The effectiveness of our composite hydrogel system was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating significant tumor suppression and killing. These results demonstrate the potential of this injectable composite hydrogel for spatiotemporal cancer treatment. In conclusion, integration of PTT and chemotherapy within our hydrogel platform offers enhanced therapeutic efficacy, suggesting promising prospects for future clinical applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Our research pioneers a breakthrough in cancer treatments by developing an injectable hydrogel platform incorporating liquid metal (LM) particle-mediated photothermal therapy and 6-mercaptopurine (MP)-based chemotherapy. The combination of gallium-based LM and MP achieves synergistic anticancer effects, and our injectable composite hydrogel acts as a localized reservoir for specific delivery of both therapeutic agents. This platform induces a multi-step anticancer mechanism, combining NIR-mediated hyperthermic tumor death and drug release triggered by released glutathione from damaged cancer populations. The synergistic efficacy validated in vitro and in vivo studies highlights significant tumor suppression. This injectable composite hydrogel with synergistic therapeutic efficacy holds immense promise for biomaterial-mediated spatiotemporal treatment of solid tumors, offering a potent targeted therapy for triple negative breast cancers.

Factors Causing Unintended Sagittal and Axial Alignment Changes in High Tibial Osteotomy: Comparative 3-Dimensional Analysis of Simulation and Actual Surgery

BACKGROUND

Unintended secondary changes in the posterior tibial slope (PTS) and tibial torsion angle (TTA) may occur after medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). In surgical procedures using patient-specific instruments (PSIs), it is essential to reproduce the PTS and TTA that were planned in simulations.

PURPOSE

To analyze the factors causing unintended sagittal and axial alignment changes after MOWHTO.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Overall, 63 patients (70 knees) who underwent MOWHTO using a PSI between June 2020 and June 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans were 3-dimensionally reconstructed. Simulated osteotomy was performed so that the weightbearing line could pass through the target point. A PSI gapper was 3-dimensionally printed to fit the posteromedial corner of the osteotomy gap in the simulated HTO model. After MOWHTO using the PSI gapper, the actual postoperative model was compared with the preoperative or simulation model. This assessment included PTS, TTA, hinge axis, and osteotomy-related parameters. Cortical breakage around the lateral hinge was evaluated to assess stability.

RESULTS

The mean PTS and TTA did not change in the simulation. However, significant changes were observed in the actual postoperative PTS and TTA (change, -2.4°± 2.2° and -3.9°± 4.7°, respectively). The PTS was reduced, while the TTA decreased with internal rotation of the distal fragment. The difference in the axial hinge axis angle (AHA) between the simulation and actual surgery was the factor most correlated with the difference in the PTS (r = 0.625; P < .001). In regression analysis, the difference in the AHA was the only factor associated with the difference in the PTS (β = 0.558; P = .001), and there were no factors that showed any significant associations with the difference in the TTA. In subgroup analyses for the change in the TTA, the correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle were significantly higher in the more internal rotation group (P = .023 and P = .010, respectively). The TTA change was significantly higher in the unstable group with lateral cortical breakage (P = .018). The unstable group was more likely to show an internal rotation of ≥5° (odds ratio, 5.0; P = .007).

CONCLUSION

The AHA was associated with a difference in the PTS between the simulation and actual surgery. The change in the TTA was caused by a combination of multiple factors, such as a large correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle, but mainly by instability of the lateral cortical hinge.

Realization of Multiple Synapse Plasticity by Coexistence of Volatile and Nonvolatile Characteristics of Interface Type Memristor

Studies on neuromorphic computing systems are becoming increasingly important in the big-data-processing era as these systems are capable of energy-efficient parallel data processing and can overcome the present limitations owing to the von Neumann bottleneck. The Pt/WOx/ITO resistive random-access memory device can be used to implement versatile synapse functions because it possesses both volatile and nonvolatile characteristics. The gradual increase and decrease in the current of the Pt/WOx/ITO device with its uniform resistance state for endurance and retention enables additional synaptic applications that can be controlled using electric pulses. If the volatile and nonvolatile device properties are set through rehearsal and forgetting processes, the device can emulate various synaptic behaviors, such as potentiation and depression, paired-pulse facilitation, post-tetanic potentiation, image training, Hebbian learning rules, excitatory postsynaptic current, and Pavlov's test. Furthermore, reservoir computing can be implemented for applications such as pattern generation and recognition. This emphasizes the various applications of future neuromorphic devices, demonstrating the various favorable characteristics of pulse-enhanced Pt/WOx/ITO devices.

Emergence of Long-Range Angular Correlations in Low-Multiplicity Proton-Proton Collisions

This Letter presents the measurement of near-side associated per-trigger yields, denoted ridge yields, from the analysis of angular correlations of charged hadrons in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV. Long-range ridge yields are extracted for pairs of charged particles with a pseudorapidity difference of 1.4<|Δη|<1.8 and a transverse momentum of 1 Collapse

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First Measurement of the |t| Dependence of Incoherent J/ψ Photonuclear Production

The first measurement of the cross section for incoherent photonuclear production of J/ψ vector mesons as a function of the Mandelstam |t| variable is presented. The measurement was carried out with the ALICE detector at midrapidity, |y|<0.8, using ultraperipheral collisions of Pb nuclei at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. This rapidity interval corresponds to a Bjorken-x range (0.3-1.4)×10^{-3}. Cross sections are given in five |t| intervals in the range 0.04<|t|<1  GeV^{2} and compared to the predictions by different models. Models that ignore quantum fluctuations of the gluon density in the colliding hadron predict a |t| dependence of the cross section much steeper than in data. The inclusion of such fluctuations in the same models provides a better description of the data.

Emulating biological synaptic characteristics of HfOx/AlN-based 3D vertical resistive memory for neuromorphic systems

Here, we demonstrate double-layer 3D vertical resistive random-access memory with a hole-type structure embedding Pt/HfOx/AlN/TiN memory cells, conduct analog resistive switching, and examine the potential of memristors for use in neuromorphic systems. The electrical characteristics, including resistive switching, retention, and endurance, of each layer are also obtained. Additionally, we investigate various synaptic characteristics, such as spike-timing dependent plasticity, spike-amplitude dependent plasticity, spike-rate dependent plasticity, spike-duration dependent plasticity, and spike-number dependent plasticity. This synapse emulation holds great potential for neuromorphic computing applications. Furthermore, potentiation and depression are manifested through identical pulses based on DC resistive switching. The pattern recognition rates within the neural network are evaluated, and based on the conductance changing linearly with incremental pulses, we achieve a pattern recognition accuracy of over 95%. Finally, the device's stability and synapse characteristics exhibit excellent potential for use in neuromorphic systems.

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.

Implantation of hUCB-MSCs generates greater hyaline-type cartilage than microdrilling combined with high tibial osteotomy

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of treating large cartilage defects in knee osteoarthritis using human allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) implantation or arthroscopic microdrilling as a supplementary cartilage regenerative procedure combined with high tibial osteotomy (HTO).

METHODS

This 1-year prospective comparative study included 25 patients with large, near full-thickness cartilage defects (International Cartilage Repair Society grade ≥ IIIB) in the medial femoral condyles and varus malalignment. Defects were treated with hUCB-MSC implantation or arthroscopic microdrilling combined with HTO. The primary outcomes were pain visual analogue scale and International Knee Documentation Committee subjective scores at 12, 24 and 48 weeks. Secondary outcomes included arthroscopic, histological and magnetic resonance imaging assessments at 1 year.

RESULTS

Fifteen and 10 patients were treated via hUCB-MSC implantation and microdrilling, respectively. Baseline demographics, limb alignment and clinical outcomes did not significantly differ between the groups. Cartilage defects and total restored areas were significantly larger in the hUCB-MSC group (7.2 ± 1.9 vs. 5.2 ± 2.1 cm2, p = 0.023; 4.5 ± 1.4 vs. 3.0 ± 1.6 cm2, p = 0.035). The proportion of moderate-to-strong positive type II collagen staining was significantly higher in the hUCB-MSC group compared to that in the microdrilled group (93.3% vs. 60%, respectively). Rigidity upon probing resembled that of normal cartilage tissue more in the hUCB-MSC group (86.7% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.075). Histological findings revealed a higher proportion of hyaline cartilage in the group with implanted hUCB-MSC (p = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

hUCB-MSC implantation showed comparable clinical outcomes to those of microdrilling as supplementary cartilage procedures combined with HTO in the short term, despite the significantly larger cartilage defect in the hUCB-MSC group. The repaired cartilage after hUCB-MSC implantation showed greater hyaline-type cartilage with rigidity than that after microdrilling.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, Prospective Comparative Cohort Study.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of patients with serial negative surveillance cultures according to a subsequent polymerase chain reaction test for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales

BACKGROUND

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) are of serious concern worldwide due to high morbidity and mortality.

AIM

To evaluate the impact of the result of a subsequent polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for carbapenemase after serial negative surveillance cultures on positive culture conversion in patients with three consecutive negative surveillance cultures for CPE, and to identify risk factors for conversion.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients with positive CPE cultures on CHROMagar KPC medium was performed in a Korean tertiary hospital from October 2018 to December 2022. PCR for blaKPC, blaNDM, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaGES, and blaOXA-48 was performed after three consecutive negative rectal swab cultures. Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients were compared according to whether follow-up PCR was positive (CNPP) or negative (CNPN).

FINDINGS

Of 1075 patients with positive CPE cultures, 150 (14.0%) yielded three consecutive negative rectal swab cultures. Of these, 50 (33.3%) were CNPP, and 100 (66.7%) were CNPN. Risk factors associated with a positive PCR result on multivariate analysis were: age, central venous catheter, and Escherichia coli infection. CNPP patients were more likely to have positive culture conversion for CPE than CNPN patients (39/44 (88.6%) vs 21/50 (42.0%), P<0.001). In multivariate analysis, independent risk factors for culture conversion were: a positive PCR result after surveillance cultures, diabetes mellitus, central venous catheter, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

CONCLUSION

CNPP patients have higher rates of culture conversion than CNPN patients, and a follow-up PCR test after serial negative surveillance cultures is useful in deciding whether or not to discontinue contact precautions.

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.

Observation of WWγ Production and Search for Hγ Production in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

The observation of WWγ production in proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV with an integrated luminosity of 138  fb^{-1} is presented. The observed (expected) significance is 5.6 (5.1) standard deviations. Events are selected by requiring exactly two leptons (one electron and one muon) of opposite charge, moderate missing transverse momentum, and a photon. The measured fiducial cross section for WWγ is 5.9±0.8(stat)±0.8(syst)±0.7(modeling)  fb, in agreement with the next-to-leading order quantum chromodynamics prediction. The analysis is extended with a search for the associated production of the Higgs boson and a photon, which is generated by a coupling of the Higgs boson to light quarks. The result is used to constrain the Higgs boson couplings to light quarks.

A signal processing tool for extracting features from arterial blood pressure and photoplethysmography waveforms

Arterial blood pressure (ABP) and photoplethysmography (PPG) waveforms contain valuable clinical information and play a crucial role in cardiovascular health monitoring, medical research, and managing medical conditions. The features extracted from PPG waveforms have various clinical applications ranging from blood pressure monitoring to nociception monitoring, while features from ABP waveforms can be used to calculate cardiac output and predict hypertension or hypotension. In recent years, many machine learning models have been proposed to utilize both PPG and ABP waveform features for these healthcare applications. However, the lack of standardized tools for extracting features from these waveforms could potentially affect their clinical effectiveness. In this paper, we propose an automatic signal processing tool for extracting features from ABP and PPG waveforms. Additionally, we generated a PPG feature library from a large perioperative dataset comprising 17,327 patients using the proposed tool. This PPG feature library can be used to explore the potential of these extracted features to develop machine learning models for non-invasive blood pressure estimation.

New Structures in the J/ψJ/ψ Mass Spectrum in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

A search is reported for near-threshold structures in the J/ψJ/ψ invariant mass spectrum produced in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV from data collected by the CMS experiment, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 135  fb^{-1}. Three structures are found, and a model with quantum interference among these structures provides a good description of the data. A new structure is observed with a local significance above 5 standard deviations at a mass of 6638_{-38}^{+43}(stat)_{-31}^{+16}(syst)  MeV. Another structure with even higher significance is found at a mass of 6847_{-28}^{+44}(stat)_{-20}^{+48}(syst)  MeV, which is consistent with the X(6900) resonance reported by the LHCb experiment and confirmed by the ATLAS experiment. Evidence for another new structure, with a local significance of 4.7 standard deviations, is found at a mass of 7134_{-25}^{+48}(stat)_{-15}^{+41}(syst)  MeV. Results are also reported for a model without interference, which does not fit the data as well and shows mass shifts up to 150 MeV relative to the model with interference.

Optimized Design of Hyaluronic Acid-Lipid Conjugate Biomaterial for Augmenting CD44 Recognition of Surface-Engineered NK Cells

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents treatment challenges due to a lack of detectable surface receptors. Natural killer (NK) cell-based adaptive immunotherapy is a promising treatment because of the characteristic anticancer effects of killing malignant cells directly by secreting cytokines and lytic granules. To maximize the cancer recognition ability of NK cells, biomaterial-mediated ex vivo cell surface engineering has been developed for sufficient cell membrane immobilization of tumor-targeting ligands via hydrophobic anchoring. In this study, we optimized amphiphilic balances of NK cell coating materials composed of CD44-targeting hyaluronic acid (HA)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-lipid to improve TNBC recognition and the anticancer effect. Changes in the modular design of our material by differentiating hydrophilic PEG length and incorporating lipid amount into HA backbones precisely regulated the amphiphilic nature of HA-PEG-lipid conjugates. The optimized biomaterial demonstrated improved anchoring into NK cell membranes and facilitating the surface presentation level of HA onto NK cell surfaces. This led to enhanced cancer targeting via increasing the formation of immune synapse, thereby augmenting the anticancer capability of NK cells specifically toward CD44-positive TNBC cells. Our approach addresses targeting ability of NK cell to solid tumors with a deficiency of surface tumor-specific antigens while offering a valuable material design strategy using amphiphilic balance in immune cell surface engineering techniques.

Utility of cranial MRI in non-traumatic headache patients with prior negative head CT within 1 month

AIM

To investigate the importance of additional cranial magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) in non-traumatic headache patients with a prior negative head computed tomography (CT) examination within 1 month.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study analysed 162 adult patients with non-traumatic headache who underwent cMRI within 1 month of a negative initial head CT at the emergency department (ED). The diagnostic yield and false-referral rate were analysed according to the revisit duration (early [≤1 week] versus late [>1-4 weeks] revisits), patient care settings (ED versus outpatient clinics [OPC]), and clinical variables. Subsequent patient management change (PMC), such as admission and treatment (AT) or outpatient clinic treatment (OT), were also investigated.

RESULTS

The overall diagnostic yield of cMRI was 17.3% (28/162) and the false-referral rate was 1.2% (2/162). The diagnostic yield of cMRI was significantly different according to the patient care settings (ED, 24.7% [21/85] versus OPC, 9.1% [7/77]; p=0.02). The diagnostic yield was highest in the ED-early-revisit group (25.4% [18/71]), 45% (9/20) in those with systemic signs, and 46.7% (14/30) in those with symptom change. Among patients with positive cMRI findings, 90% (27/30) received AT and 3.3% (1/30) received OT. Among OPC-revisit-negative cMRI patients, PMC occurred in 0% (0/50).

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic yield of cMRI was relatively high for headache patients who revisited the ED earlier, especially in those with systemic signs or symptom change. Most positive cMRI cases experienced PMC. Negative cMRI in OPC-revisit patients might help clarify the benign nature of a condition.

Multifunctional HfAlO thin film: Ferroelectric tunnel junction and resistive random access memory

This study presents findings indicating that the ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) or resistive random-access memory (RRAM) in one cell can be intentionally selected depending on the application. The HfAlO film annealed at 700 °C shows stable FTJ characteristics and can be converted into RRAM by forming a conductive filament inside the same cell, that is, the process of intentionally forming a conductive filament is the result of defect generation and redistribution, and applying compliance current prior to a hard breakdown event of the dielectric film enables subsequent RRAM operation. The converted RRAM demonstrated good memory performance. Through current-voltage fitting, it was confirmed that the two resistance states of the FTJ and RRAM had different transport mechanisms. In the RRAM, the 1/f noise power of the high-resistance state (HRS) was about ten times higher than that of the low-resistance state (LRS). This is because the noise components increase due to the additional current paths in the HRS. The 1/f noise power according to resistance states in the FTJ was exactly the opposite result from the case of the RRAM. This is because the noise component due to the Poole-Frenkel emission is added to the noise component due to the tunneling current in the LRS. In addition, we confirmed the potentiation and depression characteristics of the two devices and further evaluated the accuracy of pattern recognition through a simulation by considering a dataset from the Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Prognostic Factors for Clinical Outcome and Cartilage Regeneration after Implantation of Allogeneic Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Large-Sized Cartilage Defects with Osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the prognostic factors for clinical outcomes and cartilage regeneration after the implantation of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) for treating large-sized cartilage defects with osteoarthritis.

DESIGN

This study is a case-series with multiple subgroup analyses that divides the included patients into multiple subgroups based on various factors. Overall, 47 patients who underwent hUCB-MSC implantation were included. The patient-reported outcomes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and second-look arthroscopy were used to assess the outcomes.

RESULTS

Combined realignment surgery significantly correlated with clinical outcomes, particularly pain. No other factors significantly influenced the clinical outcomes in short-term period. Subgroups with large defect sizes or meniscal insufficiency showed significantly poor MRI and arthroscopy outcomes (MRI, P = 0.001, P = 0.001; arthroscopy, P = 0.032, P = 0.042). The logistic regression showed that patients with a 1 cm2 larger defect size were 1.91 times less likely to achieve favorable MRI outcomes (P = 0.017; odds ratio [OR], 1.91). Cut-off value to predict the poor outcome was >5.7 cm2 (area under the curve, 0.756). A cartilage defect size >5.7 cm2 was the major poor prognostic factor for cartilage regeneration on MRI (P = 0.010; OR, 17.46). If the postoperative alignment shifted by 1° opposite to the cartilage defect, it was 1.4 times more likely to achieve favorable MRI outcomes (P = 0.028; OR, 1.4).

CONCLUSION

Combining realignment surgery showed a better prognosis for pain improvement. Cartilage defect size, meniscal function, and postoperative alignment are significant prognostic factors for cartilage regeneration. A cartilage defect size >5.7 cm2 was significantly related to poor cartilage regeneration.

Allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation versus microdrilling combined with high tibial osteotomy for cartilage regeneration

This study compared cartilage regeneration outcomes in knee osteoarthritis (OA) using allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) implantation and microdrilling with high tibial osteotomy (HTO). Fifty-four patients (60 knees) were included: 24 (27 knees) in the hUCB-MSC group and 30 (33 knees) in the microdrilling group. Both groups showed significant improvements in pain and functional scores at 6, 12, and 24 months compared to baseline. At 24 months, the hUCB-MSC group had significantly improved scores. Arthroscopic assessment at 12 months revealed better cartilage healing in the hUCB-MSC group. In subgroup analysis according to the defect site, hUCB-MSC implantation showed superior cartilage healing for anterior lesions. In conclusion, both treatments demonstrated effectiveness for medial OA. However, hUCB-MSC implantation had better patient-reported outcomes and cartilage regeneration than microdrilling. The study suggests promising approaches for cartilage restoration in large knee defects due to OA.

Search for Scalar Leptoquarks Produced via τ-Lepton-Quark Scattering in pp Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

The first search for scalar leptoquarks produced in τ-lepton-quark collisions is presented. It is based on a set of proton-proton collision data recorded with the CMS detector at the LHC at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 138  fb^{-1}. The reconstructed final state consists of a jet, significant missing transverse momentum, and a τ lepton reconstructed through its hadronic or leptonic decays. Limits are set on the product of the leptoquark production cross section and branching fraction and interpreted as exclusions in the plane of the leptoquark mass and the leptoquark-τ-quark coupling strength.

Using synchronized brain rhythms to bias memory-guided decisions

Functional interactions between the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, as revealed by strong oscillatory synchronization in the theta (6-11 Hz) frequency range, correlate with memory-guided decision-making. However, the degree to which this form of long-range synchronization influences memory-guided choice remains unclear. We developed a brain machine interface that initiated task trials based on the magnitude of prefrontal hippocampal theta synchronization, then measured choice outcomes. Trials initiated based on strong prefrontal-hippocampal theta synchrony were more likely to be correct compared to control trials on both working memory-dependent and -independent tasks. Prefrontal-thalamic neural interactions increased with prefrontal-hippocampal synchrony and optogenetic activation of the ventral midline thalamus primarily entrained prefrontal theta rhythms, but dynamically modulated synchrony. Together, our results show that prefrontal-hippocampal theta synchronization leads to a higher probability of a correct choice and strengthens prefrontal-thalamic dialogue. Our findings reveal new insights into the neural circuit dynamics underlying memory-guided choices and highlight a promising technique to potentiate cognitive processes or behavior via brain machine interfacing.

Toxicological assessment of divalent ion-modified ZnO nanomaterials through artificial intelligence and in vivo study

The nanotechnology-driven industrial revolution widely relies on metal oxide-based nanomaterial (NM). Zinc oxide (ZnO) production has rapidly increased globally due to its outstanding physical and chemical properties and versatile applications in industries including cement, rubber, paints, cosmetics, and more. Nevertheless, releasing Zn2+ ions into the environment can profoundly impact living systems and affect water-based ecosystems, including biological ones. In aquatic environments, Zn2+ ions can change water properties, directly influencing underwater ecosystems, especially fish populations. These ions can accumulate in fish tissues when fish are exposed to contaminated water and pose health risks to humans who consume them, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and even organ damage. To address this issue, safety of ZnO NMs should be enhanced without altering their nanoscale properties, thus preventing toxic-related problems. In this study, an eco-friendly precipitation method was employed to prepare ZnO NMs. These NMs were found to reduce ZnO toxicity levels by incorporating elements such as Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba. Structural, morphological, and optical properties of synthesized NMs were thoroughly investigated. In vitro tests demonstrated potential antioxidative properties of NMs with significant effects on free radical scavenging activities. In vivo, toxicity tests were conducted using Oreochromis mossambicus fish and male Swiss Albino mice to compare toxicities of different ZnO NMs. Fish and mice exposed to these NMs exhibited biochemical changes and histological abnormalities. Notably, ZnCaO NMs demonstrated lower toxicity to fish and mice than other ZnO NMs. This was attributed to its Ca2+ ions, which could enhance body growth metabolism compared to other metals, thus improving material safety. Furthermore, whether nanomaterials' surface roughness might contribute to their increased toxicity in biological systems was investigated utilizing computer vision (CV)-based AI tools to obtain SEM images of NMs, providing valuable image-based surface morphology data that could be correlated with relevant toxicology studies.

Release or transection of superficial medial collateral ligament during open-wedge high tibial osteotomy demonstrated similar clinical outcomes and valgus laxity

PURPOSE

To analyse whether valgus laxity and clinical outcomes differ depending on whether the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) is released or transected during medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO).

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent MOWHTO and subsequent radiological follow-up for at least 2 years were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided into release and transection groups, according to the sMCL manipulation technique. Each patient was assessed for the following variables on valgus stress radiographs taken before surgery and at the 12- and 24-month follow-ups: the absolute value of valgus (ABV) and side-to-side difference (SSD) between the affected and normal sides. The differences between preoperative SSD and those at 12 and 24 months were respectively calculated and defined as delta SSD (ΔSSD). The Visual Analogue Scale, Lysholm knee, International Knee Documentation Committee subjective, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome scores were used to evaluate patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-five patients were included in the study. Forty-two patients (49.6%) underwent sMCL release, and the remaining 43 patients (50.4%) underwent sMCL transection. No significant differences were observed in the ABV and SSD of valgus laxity at the different time points between the two groups (n.s.). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in the ΔSSD at the 12- and 24-month follow-ups between the two groups (n.s.). Significant improvement from preoperative values was observed in all patient-reported outcomes (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between the two groups at any time point (n.s.).

CONCLUSION

Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed, regardless of the technique used. Postoperative valgus laxity did not occur with either technique. The transection technique, which can be performed more simply and quickly, demonstrated similar clinical outcomes and valgus laxity to the release technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Understanding the long-term impact of incident osteoporotic fractures on healthcare utilization and costs in Korean postmenopausal women

This study provides long-term evidence that healthcare resource utilization and costs of care in women who experienced incident osteoporotic fractures remained higher than those in women without fractures over a span of 5 years. These findings emphasize the importance of early diagnostics and treatment for osteoporosis.

PURPOSE

To evaluate healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and costs of care over 5 years after the incident osteoporotic fractures (OF) in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

We used data from the National Health Insurance Service databases 2011-2018. Women aged ≥ 50 years with incident OF (OF group) were matched to women without OF (non-OF group). HCRU (inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room [ER] visits) and costs of care (inpatient, outpatient, and ER visits) during the 5-year follow-up period were derived after propensity score matching (PSM). Additionally, we identified women with subsequent fractures within the first 2 years after the incident OF.

RESULTS

After PSM, 47,238 OF and 134,813 non-OF women were identified. HCRU rates and costs of care were highest in the first year after OF and decreased substantially, but remained higher in the OF group during the entire follow-up period. The increase in cumulative HCRU rates over 5 years was highest in inpatient admissions with ER visits (138% higher in OF vs non-OF). The cumulative total costs over 5 years were 73% higher in the OF group than in the non-OF group, which was mostly driven by inpatient costs. Trends were similar for women with subsequent fractures, but they generally showed higher HCRU and costs than those in the total OF group.

CONCLUSION

OF imposes a substantial and sustained economic burden on women, resulting in an approximately twofold increase in the cumulative cost over 5 years compared to women without fracture, which highlights the need for early diagnostics and treatment of osteoporosis.

Volatile and Nonvolatile Resistive Switching Coexistence in Conductive Point Hexagonal Boron Nitride Monolayer

Recently, we demonstrated the nonvolatile resistive switching effects of metal-insulator-metal (MIM) atomristor structures based on two-dimensional (2D) monolayers. However, there are many remaining combinations between 2D monolayers and metal electrodes; hence, there is a need to further explore 2D resistance switching devices from material selections to future perspectives. This study investigated the volatile and nonvolatile switching coexistence of monolayer hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) atomristors using top and bottom silver (Ag) metal electrodes. Utilizing an h-BN monolayer and Ag electrodes, we found that the transition between volatile and nonvolatile switching is attributed to the thickness/stiffness of chain-like conductive bridges between h-BN and Ag surfaces based on the current compliance and atomristor area. Computations indicate a "weak" bridge is responsible for volatile switching, while a "strong" bridge is formed for nonvolatile switching. The current compliance determines the number of Ag atoms that undergo dissociation at the electrode, while the atomristor area determines the degree of electric field localization that forms more stable conductive bridges. The findings of this study suggest that the h-BN atomristor using Ag electrodes shows promise as a potential solution to integrate both volatile neurons and nonvolatile synapses in a single neuromorphic crossbar array structure through electrical and dimensional designs.

ψ(2S) Suppression in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

The production of the ψ(2S) charmonium state was measured with ALICE in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, in the dimuon decay channel. A significant signal was observed for the first time at LHC energies down to zero transverse momentum, at forward rapidity (2.5 Collapse

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Search for Inelastic Dark Matter in Events with Two Displaced Muons and Missing Transverse Momentum in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

A search for dark matter in events with a displaced nonresonant muon pair and missing transverse momentum is presented. The analysis is performed using an integrated luminosity of 138  fb^{-1} of proton-proton (pp) collision data at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV produced by the LHC in 2016-2018. No significant excess over the predicted backgrounds is observed. Upper limits are set on the product of the inelastic dark matter production cross section σ(pp→A^{'}→χ_{1}χ_{2}) and the decay branching fraction B(χ_{2}→χ_{1}μ^{+}μ^{-}), where A^{'} is a dark photon and χ_{1} and χ_{2} are states in the dark sector with near mass degeneracy. This is the first dedicated collider search for inelastic dark matter.

Networked Cluster Formation via Trigonal Lipid Modules for Augmented Ex Vivo NK Cell Priming

Current cytokine-based natural killer (NK) cell priming techniques have exhibited limitations such as the deactivation of biological signaling molecules and subsequent insufficient maturation of the cell population during mass cultivation processes. In this study, we developed an amphiphilic trigonal 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylethanolamine (DSPE) lipid-polyethylene glycol (PEG) material to assemble NK cell clusters via multiple hydrophobic lipid insertions into cellular membranes. Our lipid conjugate-mediated ex vivo NK cell priming sufficiently augmented the structural modulation of clusters, facilitated diffusional signal exchanges, and finally activated NK cell population with the clusters. Without any inhibition in diffusional signal exchanges and intrinsic proliferative efficacy of NK cells, effectively prime NK cell clusters produced increased interferon-gamma, especially in the early culture periods. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that our novel lipid conjugates could serve as a promising alternative for future NK cell mass production.

A Frameshift Variant of GluN2A Identified in an Epilepsy Patient Results in NMDA Receptor Mistargeting

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are crucial for neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. Dysfunction of NMDARs is associated with multiple neurodevelopmental disorders, including epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability. Understanding the impact of genetic variants of NMDAR subunits can shed light on the mechanisms of disease. Here, we characterized the functional implications of a de novo mutation of the GluN2A subunit (P1199Rfs*32) resulting in the truncation of the C-terminal domain. The variant was identified in a male patient with epileptic encephalopathy, multiple seizure types, severe aphasia, and neurobehavioral changes. Given the known role of the CTD in NMDAR trafficking, we examined changes in receptor localization and abundance at the postsynaptic membrane using a combination of molecular assays in heterologous cells and rat primary neuronal cultures. We observed that the GluN2A P1199Rfs*32-containing receptors traffic efficiently to the postsynaptic membrane but have increased extra-synaptic expression relative to WT GluN2A-containing NMDARs. Using in silico predictions, we hypothesized that the mutant would lose all PDZ interactions, except for the recycling protein Scribble1. Indeed, we observed impaired binding to the scaffolding protein postsynaptic protein-95 (PSD-95); however, we found the mutant interacts with Scribble1, which facilitates the recycling of both the mutant and the WT GluN2A. Finally, we found that neurons expressing GluN2A P1199Rfs*32 have fewer synapses and decreased spine density, indicating compromised synaptic transmission in these neurons. Overall, our data show that GluN2A P1199Rfs*32 is a loss-of-function variant with altered membrane localization in neurons and provide mechanistic insight into disease etiology.

Implementation of Artificial Synapse Using IGZO-Based Resistive Switching Device

In this study, we present the resistive switching characteristics and the emulation of a biological synapse using the ITO/IGZO/TaN device. The device demonstrates efficient energy consumption, featuring low current resistive switching with minimal set and reset voltages. Furthermore, we establish that the device exhibits typical bipolar resistive switching with the coexistence of non-volatile and volatile memory properties by controlling the compliance during resistive switching phenomena. Utilizing the IGZO-based RRAM device with an appropriate pulse scheme, we emulate a biological synapse based on its electrical properties. Our assessments include potentiation and depression, a pattern recognition system based on neural networks, paired-pulse facilitation, excitatory post-synaptic current, and spike-amplitude dependent plasticity. These assessments confirm the device's effective emulation of a biological synapse, incorporating both volatile and non-volatile functions. Furthermore, through spike-rate dependent plasticity and spike-timing dependent plasticity of the Hebbian learning rules, high-order synapse imitation was done.

Luminosity determination using Z boson production at the CMS experiment

The measurement of Z boson production is presented as a method to determine the integrated luminosity of CMS data sets. The analysis uses proton-proton collision data, recorded by the CMS experiment at the CERN LHC in 2017 at a center-of-mass energy of 13Te V . Events with Z bosons decaying into a pair of muons are selected. The total number of Z bosons produced in a fiducial volume is determined, together with the identification efficiencies and correlations from the same data set, in small intervals of 20pb - 1 of integrated luminosity, thus facilitating the efficiency and rate measurement as a function of time and instantaneous luminosity. Using the ratio of the efficiency-corrected numbers of Z bosons, the precisely measured integrated luminosity of one data set is used to determine the luminosity of another. For the first time, a full quantitative uncertainty analysis of the use of Z  bosons for the integrated luminosity measurement is performed. The uncertainty in the extrapolation between two data sets, recorded in 2017 at low and high instantaneous luminosity, is less than 0.5%. We show that the Z boson rate measurement constitutes a precise method, complementary to traditional methods, with the potential to improve the measurement of the integrated luminosity.

Measurement of the production cross section for a W boson in association with a charm quark in proton-proton collisions at s=13TeV

The strange quark content of the proton is probed through the measurement of the production cross section for a W boson and a charm (c) quark in proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13Te V . The analysis uses a data sample corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 138fb - 1 collected with the CMS detector at the LHC. The W bosons are identified through their leptonic decays to an electron or a muon, and a neutrino. Charm jets are tagged using the presence of a muon or a secondary vertex inside the jet. The W + c production cross section and the cross section ratio R c ± = σ ( W + + c ¯ ) / σ ( W - + c ) are measured inclusively and differentially as functions of the transverse momentum and the pseudorapidity of the lepton originating from the W boson decay. The precision of the measurements is improved with respect to previous studies, reaching 1% in R c ± = 0.950 ± 0.005 (stat) ± 0.010 (syst) . The measurements are compared with theoretical predictions up to next-to-next-to-leading order in perturbative quantum chromodynamics.

Ex Vivo Surface Decoration of Phenylboronic Acid onto Natural Killer Cells for Sialic Acid-Mediated Versatile Cancer Cell Targeting

Phenylboronic acid (PBA) has been highly acknowledged as a significant cancer recognition moiety in sialic acid-overexpressing cancer cells. In this investigation, lipid-mediated biomaterial integrated PBA molecules onto the surface of natural killer (NK) cells to make a receptor-mediated immune cell therapeutic module. Therefore, a 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylethanolamine (DSPE) lipid-conjugated di-PEG-PBA (DSPEPEG-di(PEG-PBA) biomaterial was synthesized. The DSPEPEG-di(PEG-PBA) biomaterial exhibited a high affinity for sialic acid (SA), confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy at pH 6.5 and 7.4. DSPEPEG-di(PEG-PBA) was successfully anchored onto NK cell surfaces (PBA-NK), and this biomaterial maintains intrinsic properties such as viability, ligand availability (FasL & TRAIL), and cytokine secretion response to LPS. The anticancer efficacy of PBA-NK cells was evaluated against 2D cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, HepG2, and HCT-116) and 3D tumor spheroids of MDA-MB-231 cells. PBA-NK cells exhibited greatly enhanced anticancer effects against SA-overexpressing cancer cells. Thus, PBA-NK cells represent a new anticancer strategy for cancer immunotherapy.

Optimization of bacterioruberin production from Halorubrum ruber and assessment of its antioxidant potential

Haloarchaea produce bacterioruberin, a major C50 carotenoid with antioxidant properties that allow for its potential application in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. This study aimed to optimize culture conditions for total carotenoid, predominantly comprising bacterioruberin, production using Halorubrum ruber MBLA0099. A one-factor-at-a-time and statistically-based experimental design were applied to optimize the culture conditions. Culture in the optimized medium caused an increase in total carotenoid production from 0.496 to 1.966 mg L- 1 Maximal carotenoid productivity was achieved in a 7-L laboratory-scale fermentation and represented a 6.05-fold increase (0.492 mg L-1 d-1). The carotenoid extracts from strain MBLA0099 exhibited a 1.8-10.3-fold higher antioxidant activity in vitro, and allowed for a higher survival rate of Caenorhabditis elegans under oxidative stress conditions. These results demonstrated that Hrr. ruber MBLA0099 has significant potential as a haloarchaon for the commercial production of bacterioruberin.

Broadband Van-der-Waals Photodetector Driven by Ferroelectric Polarization

The potential for various future industrial applications has made broadband photodetectors beyond visible light an area of great interest. Although most 2D van-der-Waals (vdW) semiconductors have a relatively large energy bandgap (>1.2 eV), which limits their use in short-wave infrared detection, they have recently been considered as a replacement for ternary alloys in high-performance photodetectors due to their strong light-matter interaction. In this study, a ferroelectric gating ReS2 /WSe2 vdW heterojunction-channel photodetector is presented that successfully achieves broadband light detection (>1300 nm, expandable up to 2700 nm). The staggered type-II bandgap alignment creates an interlayer gap of 0.46 eV between the valence band maximum (VBMAX ) of WSe2 and the conduction band minimum (CBMIN ) of ReS2 . Especially, the control of poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) ferroelectric dipole polarity for a specific wavelength allows a high photoresponsivity of up to 6.9 × 103 A W-1 and a low dark current below 0.26 nA under the laser illumination with a wavelength of 405 nm in P-up mode. The achieved high photoresponsivity, low dark current, and full-range near infrared (NIR) detection capability open the door for next-generation photodetectors beyond traditional ternary alloy photodetectors.

Preoperative joint line obliquity, a newly identified factor for overcorrection, can be incorporated into a novel preoperative planning method to optimise alignment in high tibial osteotomy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyse the factors associated with additional postoperative alignment changes after accurate bony correction by selecting only patients with well-performed bony correction as planned and develop a method of incorporating significant factors into preoperative planning.

METHODS

Among 104 consecutive patients who underwent medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) between October 2019 and July 2022, 61 with well-performed bony corrections were retrospectively reviewed. The major criterion for well-performed bony correction was a difference of <1° between the simulated medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and the actual postoperative MPTA as measured in three dimensions. Radiographic parameters, such as the joint line convergence angle (JLCA) and joint line obliquity (JLO), were measured preoperatively and postoperatively, utilising standing and supine whole lower extremity anteroposterior, valgus and varus stress radiographs. Multiple linear regression analysis identified the factors affecting alignment changes, and a prediction model was developed. A method for applying this prediction model to preoperative planning was proposed.

RESULTS

Preoperative JLCA on standing (preJLCAstd ), preoperative JLCA on 0° valgus stress radiograph (vgJLCA0 ), and preoperative JLO (preJLO) were significantly correlated with JLCA change (∆JLCA) (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.006). The prediction model was estimated as ∆JLCA = 0.493 × (vgJLCA0 ) - 0.727 × (preJLCAstd ) + 0.189 × (preJLO) - 1.587 in. (R = 0.815, modified R2  = 0.646, p < 0.001). The proposed method resulted in a reduced overcorrection rate (p = 0.003) and an improved proportion of acceptable alignments (p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

PreJLCAstd , vgJLCA0  and preJLO can be used to estimate ∆JLCA. PreJLO was recently identified as a significant factor associated with additional alignment changes. Utilising the proposed preoperative planning and a prediction model with these factors shows promise in calibrating postoperative alignment after MOWHTO.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Weight-bearing test of traumatic triangular fibrocartilage complex lesion with unstable radioulnar joint

BACKGROUND

Ulnar-sided wrist pain might be caused by a lesion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). Patients with TFCC lesion may show an instability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Before arthroscopic assessment, conservative therapy using a brace or splint may result in alleviation of symptoms. The results of our previous study showed that patients with a traumatic TFCC lesion and instability of the DRUJ had the smallest weight-bearing capacity and had the largest increase in application of the wrist brace (WristWidget).

PURPOSE

In this prospective study, we wanted to test if the weight-bearing capacity with and without the wrist brace can be used as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between patients with traumatic TFCC lesion and instability of the DRUJ. We tested if patients with traumatic TFCC lesion and instability of the DRUJ (1) have a lower weight-bearing capacity and (2) show a higher increase of weight-bearing capacity after application of a wrist brace compared to all other types of injury.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective cohort study.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients presented to an outpatient clinic with suspected TFCC lesion. We measured the dynamic weight-bearing capacity of both hands with and without the wrist brace (WristWidget) by letting the patients lean on an analog scale with extended arm and wrist. The stability of the DRUJ was assessed by clinical examination by a hand surgeon preoperatively and intraoperatively. Forty-five patients received an arthroscopy and were included in the analysis. During arthroscopy, the surgeon determined if there was a traumatic TFCC lesion and DRUJ instability. Patients with a traumatic lesion of the TFCC and DRUJ instability were compared to all other cases. We used the t-test for normally distributed values, Mann-Whitney U test for nonnormally distributed values, and the Chi-square test for categorical variables, respectively Fisher's exact if the expected cell count was less than five.

RESULTS

Patients with a traumatic TFCC lesion and DRUJ instability had a higher weight-bearing capacity (22.8 kg) than all other cases (13.8 kg; p < 0.01). This is in contrast to our previous study, in which patients with a traumatic lesion of the TFCC had the tendency to show lower values of weight-bearing capacity than those with a degenerative lesion. While the wrist brace was worn, the relative gain was not significantly lower in patients with traumatic TFCC lesions and DRUJ instability compared to all other cases (21% vs 54%, p = 0.16). All included cases showed the same absolute increase of about 4 kg in weight-bearing capacity with the wrist brace (p = 0.93) CONCLUSIONS: The weight-bearing test cannot be used to identify patients with traumatic TFCC lesion and DRUJ instability among those with suspected TFCC lesion. The results of our previous study could be confirmed that the weight-bearing capacity on the injured side was higher with brace than without.

National long-term trends in health-related quality of life using EQ-5D-3L in South Korea, 2008-2021, including the COVID-19 pandemic: a representative serial study of 2.8 million people

OBJECTIVE

There is a scarcity of literature investigating the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on long-term trends in health-related quality of life (HrQoL) using large-scale and representative data. Thus, we aimed to investigate the nationwide and long-term trends in quality of life (QoL) using the European Quality of Life- 5 dimensions, 3-level version (EQ-5D-3L) from a Korean representative serial study of 2.8 million people, 2008-2021.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This Korean study used data on adults between 2008 and 2021 who participated in the Community Health Survey. Timeframes were categorized as COVID-19 mid-pandemic (2021) and pre-pandemic (2008-2019). The mean EQ-5D-3L index for the whole population and subgroups stratified by demographic characters was evaluated for each timeframe, and differences between before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were also analyzed.

RESULTS

2,827,240 adults who responded to the survey, 2008-2021, were eligible for this study. Overall EQ-5D index persistently decreased from 2008-2016, then minimally decreased during the pandemic, still being much higher than forecasted before the COVID-19 pandemic. The reduction in the rate of decline in QoL after the COVID-19 outbreak was especially marked in white-collared, young adults, people with 'good' or 'very good' subjective health, and college-educated or above group. On the other hand, the previously increasing trend of QoL in the elderly group has decelerated during the pandemic, and QoL of the 'very bad' subjective health group recorded the lowest in the whole study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study investigated the long-term trend of QoL in Korean adults using serial data over the past 14 years, with a special emphasis on comparing the pre- and mid-COVID-19 pandemic periods.

Surface Engineering of Natural Killer Cells with CD44-targeting Ligands for Augmented Cancer Immunotherapy

Adoptive immunotherapy utilizing natural killer (NK) cells has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating hematologic malignancies. However, its clinical intervention for solid tumors is hindered by the limited expression of tumor-specific antigens. Herein, lipid-PEG conjugated hyaluronic acid (HA) materials (HA-PEG-Lipid) for the simple ex-vivo surface coating of NK cells is developed for 1) lipid-mediated cellular membrane anchoring via hydrophobic interaction and thereby 2) sufficient presentation of the CD44 ligand (i.e., HA) onto NK cells for cancer targeting, without the need for genetic manipulation. Membrane-engineered NK cells can selectively recognize CD44-overexpressing cancer cells through HA-CD44 affinity and subsequently induce in situ activation of NK cells for cancer elimination. Therefore, the surface-engineered NK cells using HA-PEG-Lipid (HANK cells) establish an immune synapse with CD44-overexpressing MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells, triggering the "recognition-activation" mechanism, and ultimately eliminating cancer cells. Moreover, in mouse xenograft tumor models, administrated HANK cells demonstrate significant infiltration into solid tumors, resulting in tumor apoptosis/necrosis and effective suppression of tumor progression and metastasis, as compared to NK cells and gemcitabine. Taken together, the HA-PEG-Lipid biomaterials expedite the treatment of solid tumors by facilitating a sequential recognition-activation mechanism of surface-engineered HANK cells, suggesting a promising approach for NK cell-mediated immunotherapy.

Probing Small Bjorken-x Nuclear Gluonic Structure via Coherent J/ψ Photoproduction in Ultraperipheral Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

Quasireal photons exchanged in relativistic heavy ion interactions are powerful probes of the gluonic structure of nuclei. The coherent J/ψ photoproduction cross section in ultraperipheral lead-lead collisions is measured as a function of photon-nucleus center-of-mass energies per nucleon (W_{γN}^{Pb}) over a wide range of 40 Collapse

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Tailoring tumor-recognizable hyaluronic acid-lipid conjugates to enhance anticancer efficacies of surface-engineered natural killer cells

Natural killer (NK) cells have clinical advantages in adoptive cell therapy owing to their inherent anticancer efficacy and their ability to identify and eliminate malignant tumors. However, insufficient cancer-targeting ligands on NK cell surfaces often inhibit their immunotherapeutic performance, especially in immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. To facilitate tumor recognition and subsequent anticancer function of NK cells, we developed hyaluronic acid (HA, ligands to target CD44 overexpressed onto cancer cells)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG, cytoplasmic penetration blocker)-Lipid (molecular anchor for NK cell membrane decoration through hydrophobic interaction) conjugates for biomaterial-mediated ex vivo NK cell surface engineering. Among these major compartments (i.e., Lipid, PEG and HA), optimization of lipid anchors (in terms of chemical structure and intrinsic amphiphilicity) is the most important design parameter to modulate hydrophobic interaction with dynamic NK cell membranes. Here, three different lipid types including 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphati-dylethanolamine (C14:0), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE, C18:0), and cholesterol were evaluated to maximize membrane coating efficacy and associated anticancer performance of surface-engineered NK cells (HALipid-NK cells). Our results demonstrated that NK cells coated with HA-PEG-DSPE conjugates exhibited significantly enhanced anticancer efficacies toward MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells without an off-target effect on human fibroblasts specifically via increased NK cell membrane coating efficacy and prolonged surface duration of HA onto NK cell surfaces, thereby improving HA-CD44 recognition. These results suggest that our HALipid-NK cells with tumor-recognizable HA-PEG-DSPE conjugates could be further utilized in various cancer immunotherapies.

Preliminary investigation on the implementation of an artificial synapse using TaOx-based memristor with thermally oxidized active layer

This study presents a preliminary exploration of thermally oxidized TaOx-based memristors and their potential as artificial synapses. Unlike the 10-min annealed devices, which display instability due to current overshoots, the 5-min annealed device exhibits stable resistive switching, retention, and endurance characteristics. Moreover, our memristor showcases synaptic behaviors encompassing potentiation, depression, spike-timing-dependent plasticity, and excitatory postsynaptic currents. This synaptic emulation holds tremendous promise for applications in neuromorphic computing, offering the opportunity to replicate the adaptive learning principles observed in biological synapses. In addition, we evaluate the device's suitability for pattern recognition within a neural network using the modified National Institute of Standards and Technology dataset. Our assessment reveals that the Pt/TaOx/Ta memristor with an oxidized insulator achieves outstanding potential manifested by an accuracy of 93.25% for the identical pulse scheme and an impressive accuracy of 95.42% for the incremental pulse scheme.

Analog Memory and Synaptic Plasticity in an InGaZnO-Based Memristor by Modifying Intrinsic Oxygen Vacancies

This study focuses on InGaZnO-based synaptic devices fabricated using reactive radiofrequency sputtering deposition with highly uniform and reliable multilevel memory states. Electron trapping and trap generation behaviors were examined based on current compliance adjustments and constant voltage stressing on the ITO/InGaZnO/ITO memristor. Using O2 + N2 plasma treatment resulted in stable and consistent cycle-to-cycle memory switching with an average memory window of ~95.3. Multilevel resistance states ranging from 0.68 to 140.7 kΩ were achieved by controlling the VRESET within the range of -1.4 to -1.8 V. The modulation of synaptic weight for short-term plasticity was simulated by applying voltage pulses with increasing amplitudes after the formation of a weak conductive filament. To emulate several synaptic behaviors in InGaZnO-based memristors, variations in the pulse interval were used for paired-pulse facilitation and pulse frequency-dependent spike rate-dependent plasticity. Long-term potentiation and depression are also observed after strong conductive filaments form at higher current compliance in the switching layer. Hence, the ITO/InGaZnO/ITO memristor holds promise for high-performance synaptic device applications.

Ex Vivo Peptide Decoration Strategies on Stem Cell Surfaces for Augmenting Endothelium Interaction

Ischemic vascular diseases remain leading causes of disability and death. Although various clinical therapies have been tried, reperfusion injury is a major issue, occurring when blood recirculates at the damaged lesion. As an alternative approach, cell-based therapy has emerged. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are attractive cellular candidates due to their therapeutic capacities, including differentiation, safety, angiogenesis, and tissue repair. However, low levels of receptors/ligands limit targeted migration of stem cells. Thus, it is important to improve homing efficacy of transplanted MSCs toward damaged endothelium. Among various MSC modulations, ex vivo cell surface engineering could effectively augment homing efficiency by decorating MSC surfaces with alternative receptors/ligands, thereby facilitating intercellular interactions with the endothelium. Especially, exogenous decoration of peptides onto stem cell surfaces could provide appropriate functional signaling moieties to achieve sufficient MSC homing. Based on their protein-like functionalities, high modularity in molecular design, and high specific affinities and multivalency to target receptors, peptides could be representative surface-presentable moieties. Moreover, peptides feature a mild synthetic process, enabling precise control of amino acid composition and sequence. Such ex vivo stem cell surface engineering could be achieved primarily by hydrophobic interactions of the cellular bilayer with peptide-conjugated anchor modules and by covalent conjugation between peptides and available compartments in membranes. To this end, this review provides an overview of currently available peptide-mediated, ex vivo stem cell surface engineering strategies for enhancing MSC homing efficiency by facilitating interactions with endothelial cells. Stem cell surface engineering techniques using peptide-based bioconjugates have the potential to revolutionize current vascular disease treatments while addressing their technical limitations.

Uniform multilevel switching and synaptic properties in RF-sputtered InGaZnO-based memristor treated with oxygen plasma

Bipolar gradual resistive switching was investigated in ITO/InGaZnO/ITO resistive switching devices. Controlled intrinsic oxygen vacancy formation inside the switching layer enabled the establishment of a stable multilevel memory state, allowing for RESET voltage control and non-degradable data endurance. The ITO/InGaZnO interface governs the migration of oxygen ions and redox reactions within the switching layer. Voltage-stress-induced electron trapping and oxygen vacancy formation were observed before conductive filament electroforming. This device mimicked biological synapses, demonstrating short- and long-term potentiation and depression through electrical pulse sequences. Modulation of post-synaptic currents and pulse frequency-dependent short-term potentiation were successfully emulated in the InGaZnO-based artificial synapse. The ITO/InGaZnO/ITO memristor exhibited spike-amplitude-dependent plasticity, spike-rate-dependent plasticity, and potentiation-depression synaptic learning with low energy consumption, making it a promising candidate for large-scale integration.

Measurements of Groomed-Jet Substructure of Charm Jets Tagged by D^{0} Mesons in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

Understanding the role of parton mass and Casimir color factors in the quantum chromodynamics parton shower represents an important step in characterizing the emission properties of heavy quarks. Recent experimental advances in jet substructure techniques have provided the opportunity to isolate and characterize gluon emissions from heavy quarks. In this Letter, the first direct experimental constraint on the charm-quark splitting function is presented, obtained via the measurement of the groomed shared momentum fraction of the first splitting in charm jets, tagged by a reconstructed D^{0} meson. The measurement is made in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, in the low jet transverse-momentum interval of 15≤p_{T}^{jet ch}<30  GeV/c where the emission properties are sensitive to parton mass effects. In addition, the opening angle of the first perturbative emission of the charm quark, as well as the number of perturbative emissions it undergoes, is reported. Comparisons to measurements of an inclusive-jet sample show a steeper splitting function for charm quarks compared with gluons and light quarks. Charm quarks also undergo fewer perturbative emissions in the parton shower, with a reduced probability of large-angle emissions.

Solvent-free enzymatic synthesis and evaluation of vanillyl propionate as an effective and biocompatible preservative

Preservatives are chemicals added to protect products against microbial spoilage, and thus are indispensable for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods. Due to growing concerns about human health and environments in conventional chemical preservatives, many companies have been seeking safe and effective alternatives that can be produced through environment-friendly processes. In this work, in order to develop effective and safe preservatives from plants, we attempt solvent-free lipase-catalyzed transesterification of vanillyl alcohol with ethyl propionate for the first time. The reaction product, vanillyl propionate was efficiently obtained in a high yield. Unlike vanillyl alcohol and ethyl propionate, vanillyl propionate showed antimicrobial activity. The minimal inhibitory concentration test showed that it exhibited high and broad antimicrobial activity against all the tested microorganisms (Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeasts, and molds), which was overall comparable to that of propyl paraben, which is one of the most effective preservatives. It was also found to have even higher antioxidant capacity and biocompatibility with human cells than propyl paraben. Vanillyl propionate, which is a plant-based preservative produced through a green bioprocess, is expected to be successfully applied to various industries thanks to its high antimicrobial and antioxidant effect, and high biocompatibility.

Cellular Membrane Components-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapeutic Platforms

Immune cell engineering is an active field of ongoing research that can be easily applied to nanoscale biomedicine as an alternative to overcoming limitations of nanoparticles. Cell membrane coating and artificial nanovesicle technology have been reported as representative methods with an advantage of good biocompatibility for biomimetic replication of cell membrane characteristics. Cell membrane-mediated biomimetic technique provides properties of natural cell membrane and enables membrane-associated cellular/molecular signaling. Thus, coated nanoparitlces (NPs) and artificial nanovesicles can achieve effective and extended in vivo circulation, enabling execution of target functions. While coated NPs and artificial nanovesicles provide clear advantages, much work remains before clinical application. In this review, first a comprehensive overview of cell membrane coating techniques and artificial nanovesicles is provided. Next, the function and application of various immune cell membrane types are summarized.