bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted delivery of tumor necrosis factor in combination with CCNU induces a T cell–dependent regression of glioblastoma
Authors: Look Thomas , Puca Emanuele , Bühler Marcel , Kirschenbaum Daniel , De Luca Roberto , Stucchi Riccardo , Ravazza Domenico , Di Nitto Cesare , Roth Patrick , Katzenelenbogen Yonatan , Weiner Assaf , Rindlisbacher Lukas , Becher Burkhard , Amit Ido , Weller Michael , Neri Dario , Hemmerle Teresa , Weiss Tobias
Published: May 2023

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumor with an unmet need for more effective therapies. Here, we investigated combination therapies based on L19TNF, an antibody-cytokine fusion protein based on tumor necrosis factor that selectively localizes to cancer neovasculature. Using immunocompetent orthotopic glioma mouse models, we identified strong anti-glioma activity of L19TNF in combination with the alkylating agent CCNU, which cured the majority of tumor-bearing mice, whereas monotherapies only had limited efficacy. In situ and ex vivo immunophenotypic and molecular profiling in the mouse models revealed that L19TNF and CCNU induced tumor DNA damage and treatment-associated tumor necrosis. In addition, this combination also up-regulated tumor endothelial cell adhesion molecules, promoted the infiltration of immune cells into the tumor, induced immunostimulatory pathways, and decreased immunosuppression pathways. MHC immunopeptidomics demonstrated that L19TNF and CCNU increased antigen presentation on MHC class I molecules. The antitumor activity was T cell dependent and completely abrogated in immunodeficient mouse models. On the basis of these encouraging results, we translated this treatment combination to patients with glioblastoma. The clinical translation is ongoing but already shows objective responses in three of five patients in the first recurrent glioblastoma patient cohort treated with L19TNF in combination with CCNU (NCT04573192).
Antibody-cytokine fusion breathes new life into glioblastoma therapy
Authors: Lee Juyeun , Nicosia Michael , Lathia Justin D.
Published: May 2023

An antibody-cytokine fusion molecule combined with chemotherapy induces tumor regression in mice and patients with recurrent glioblastoma by boosting antitumor immunity (Look
et al.
).
Red Blood Cell Lysis Pretreatment Can Significantly Improve the Yield of Treponema pallidum DNA from Blood
Authors: Wei Zi-Han , Xie Lin , Wang Yong-Jing , Zhuang Jiang-Xing , Niu Jian-Jun , Liu Li-Li
Published: May 2023

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by
T. pallidum
that can spread into the blood.
T. pallidum
DNA can be detected in blood by PCR but with low sensitivity. Few studies have applied RBC lysis pretreatment to blood
T. pallidum
DNA extraction.
Supplemental Material: Genesis of volcanic-hosted Cu vein deposits in the foreland fold-thrust belt, southeastern Tibetan Plateau: Insights from ore geology, C-O-S-Pb-Cu isotopes and fluid inclusions at Wenyu
Authors: Sun Xiang , Deng Jun , et al.
Published: May 2023

Table S1: Descriptions of samples. Table S2: Electron microprobe data and calculated formulas of sulfides from the Wenyu Cu deposit. Table S3: Microthermometric data of fluid inclusions. Table S4: In-situ oxygen isotope data for quartz at Wenyu. Table S5: In-situ sulfur-oxygen isotope data for sulfates at Wenyu. Table S6: In-situ sulfur isotope data for sulfides at Wenyu.
Supplemental Material: U-Pb and Re-Os geochronology and geochemistry of the Ulgen hidden porphyry Mo deposit in the Derbugan metallogenic belt (NE China): Insights into petrogenesis and tectonic setting
Authors: Xia Tianjiao , Liang Xinquan , et al.
Published: May 2023

Table S1: Lithology, occurrences, and locations of samples selected for zircon U-Pb, molybdenite Re-Os, whole-rock major- and trace-element analysis, zircon Hf, and Sr-Nd-Pb isotope analysis. Table S2: Zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb data of the granitoids. Table S3: Re-Os data of molybdenite from the Ulgen porphyry Mo deposit. Table S4: Whole-rock major- and trace-element compositions of the monzogranitic porphyry, muscovite monzonitic granite, and biotite granitic porphyry. Table S5: Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic compositions of the granitoids in the Ulgen deposit. Table S6: Zircon Lu-Hf isotopic composition of the granitoids. Table S7: Trace-element (ppm) data of zircon grains from the granitoids. 
Combined hormonal contraceptive use is not protective against musculoskeletal conditions or injuries: a systematic review with data from 5 million females
Authors: White Lynita , Losciale Justin M , Squier Kipling , Guy Sarah , Scott Alex , Prior Jerilynn C , Whittaker Jackie L
Published: May 2023

Objective

Assess the association between combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) use and musculoskeletal tissue pathophysiology, injuries or conditions.

Design

Systematic review with semiquantitative analyses and certainty of evidence assessment, guided by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL searched from inception to April 2022.

Eligibility

Intervention and cohort studies that assessed the association between new or ongoing use of CHC and an outcome of musculoskeletal tissue pathophysiology, injury or condition in postpubertal premenopausal females.

Results

Across 50 included studies, we assessed the effect of CHC use on 30 unique musculoskeletal outcomes (75% bone related). Serious risk of bias was judged present in 82% of studies, with 52% adequately adjusting for confounding. Meta-analyses were not possible due to poor outcome reporting, and heterogeneity in estimate statistics and comparison conditions. Based on semiquantitative synthesis, there is low certainty evidence that CHC use was associated with elevated future fracture risk (risk ratio 1.02–1.20) and total knee arthroplasty (risk ratio 1.00–1.36). There is very low certainty evidence of unclear relationships between CHC use and a wide range of bone turnover and bone health outcomes. Evidence about the effect of CHC use on musculoskeletal tissues beyond bone, and the influence of CHC use in adolescence versus adulthood, is limited.

Conclusion

Given a paucity of high certainty evidence that CHC use is protective against musculoskeletal pathophysiology, injury or conditions, it is premature and inappropriate to advocate, or prescribe CHC for these purposes.

PROSPERO registration number

This review was registered on PROSPERO CRD42021224582 on 8 January 2021.
Optimising prescribing in older adults with multimorbidity and polypharmacy in primary care (OPTICA): cluster randomised clinical trial
Authors: Jungo Katharina Tabea , Ansorg Anna-Katharina , Floriani Carmen , Rozsnyai Zsofia , Schwab Nathalie , Meier Rahel , Valeri Fabio , Stalder Odile , Limacher Andreas , Schneider Claudio , Bagattini Michael , Trelle Sven , Spruit Marco , Schwenkglenks Matthias , Rodondi Nicolas , Streit Sven
Published: May 2023

Objective

To study the effects of a primary care medication review intervention centred around an electronic clinical decision support system (eCDSS) on appropriateness of medication and the number of prescribing omissions in older adults with multimorbidity and polypharmacy compared with a discussion about medication in line with usual care.

Design

Cluster randomised clinical trial.

Setting

Swiss primary care, between December 2018 and February 2021.

Participants

Eligible patients were ≥65 years of age with three or more chronic conditions and five or more long term medications.

Intervention

The intervention to optimise pharmacotherapy centred around an eCDSS was conducted by general practitioners, followed by shared decision making between general practitioners and patients, and was compared with a discussion about medication in line with usual care between patients and general practitioners.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes were improvement in the Medication Appropriateness Index (MAI) and the Assessment of Underutilisation (AOU) at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included number of medications, falls, fractures, and quality of life.

Results

In 43 general practitioner clusters, 323 patients were recruited (median age 77 (interquartile range 73-83) years; 45% (n=146) women). Twenty one general practitioners with 160 patients were assigned to the intervention group and 22 general practitioners with 163 patients to the control group. On average, one recommendation to stop or start a medication was reported to be implemented per patient. At 12 months, the results of the intention-to-treat analysis of the improvement in appropriateness of medication (odds ratio 1.05, 95% confidence interval 0.59 to 1.87) and the number of prescribing omissions (0.90, 0.41 to 1.96) were inconclusive. The same was the case for the per protocol analysis. No clear evidence was found for a difference in safety outcomes at the 12 month follow-up, but fewer safety events were reported in the intervention group than in the control group at six and 12 months.

Conclusions

In this randomised trial of general practitioners and older adults, the results were inconclusive as to whether the medication review intervention centred around the use of an eCDSS led to an improvement in appropriateness of medication or a reduction in prescribing omissions at 12 months compared with a discussion about medication in line with usual care. Nevertheless, the intervention could be safely delivered without causing any harm to patients.

Trial registration

NCT03724539Clinicaltrials.gov
NCT03724539
Delphi consensus survey: the opinions of patients living with refractory ulcerative proctitis and the health care professionals who care for them
Authors: Kyriacou Maro , Radford Shellie , Moran Gordon W
Published: May 2023

Background

Refractory ulcerative proctitis presents a huge clinical challenge not only for the patients living with this chronic, progressive condition but also for the professionals who care for them. Currently, there is limited research and evidence-based guidance, resulting in many patients living with the symptomatic burden of disease and reduced quality of life. The aim of this study was to establish a consensus on the thoughts and opinions related to refractory proctitis disease burden and best practice for management.

Methods

A three-round Delphi consensus survey was conducted among patients living with refractory proctitis and the healthcare experts with knowledge on this disease from the UK. A brainstorming stage involving a focus group where the participants came up with an initial list of statements was completed. Following this, there were three rounds of Delphi surveys in which the participants were asked to rank the importance of the statements and provide any additional comments or clarifications. Calculation of mean scores, analysis of comments and revisions were performed to produce a final list of statements.

Results

In total, 14 statements were suggested by the focus group at the initial brainstorming stage. Following completion of three Delphi survey rounds, all 14 statements reached consensus following appropriate revision.

Conclusions

We established consensus on the thoughts and opinions related to refractory proctitis from both the experts who manage this disease and the patients living with it. This represents the first step towards developing clinical research data and ultimately the evidence needed for best practice management guidance of this condition.
Train Smart Study: protocol for a randomised trial investigating the role of exercise training dose on markers of brain health in sedentary middle-aged adults
Authors: Broatch James R , Zarekookandeh Navabeh , Glarin Rebecca , Strik Myrte , Johnston Leigh A , Moffat Bradford A , Bird Laura J , Gunningham Kate , Churilov Leonid , Johns Hannah T , Askew Christopher D , Levinger Itamar , O’Riordan Shane F , Bishop David J , Brodtmann Amy
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Regular aerobic exercise is associated with improved cognitive function, implicating it as a strategy to reduce dementia risk. This is reinforced by the association between greater cardiorespiratory fitness and larger brain volume, superior cognitive performance and lower dementia risk. However, the optimal aerobic exercise dose, namely the intensity and mode of delivery, to improve brain health and lower dementia risk has received less attention. We aim to determine the effect of different doses of aerobic exercise training on markers of brain health in sedentary middle-aged adults, hypothesising that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) will be more beneficial than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT).

Methods and analysis

In this two-group parallel, open-label blinded endpoint randomised trial, 70 sedentary middle-aged (45–65 years) adults will be randomly allocated to one of two 12-week aerobic exercise training interventions matched for total exercise training volume: (1) MICT (n=35) or HIIT (n=35). Participants will perform ~50 min exercise training sessions, 3 days per week, for 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be measured as between-group difference in cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen uptake) change from baseline to the end of training. Secondary outcomes include between-group differences in cognitive function and ultra-high field MRI (7T) measured markers of brain health (brain blood flow, cerebrovascular function, brain volume, white matter microstructural integrity and resting state functional brain activity) changes from baseline to the end of training.

Ethics and dissemination

The Victoria University Human Research Ethics Committee (VUHREC) has approved this study (HRE20178), and all protocol modifications will be communicated to the relevant parties (eg, VUHREC, trial registry). Findings from this study will be disseminated via peer-review publications, conference presentations, clinical communications and both mainstream and social media.

Trial registration number

ANZCTR12621000144819.
Ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency versus dry needling for pain management in chronic neck and shoulder myofascial pain syndrome patients at a tertiary hospital in China: a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Wang Jin , Zhang Yuelun , Cui Xulei , Shen Le
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), especially in the neck and shoulder region, is one of the most common chronic pain disorders worldwide. Dry needling (DN) and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) are the two effective methods for treating MPS. We aimed to compare the effects of DN and PRF in chronic neck and shoulder MPS patients.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, single-centre, randomised, controlled trial in a tertiary hospital. We plan to recruit 108 patients aged 18–70 years who are diagnosed with chronic MPS in the neck, shoulder and upper back regions and randomly allocate them to either the DN or PRF group at a 1:1 ratio. The DN group will receive ultrasound-guided intramuscular and interfascial DN 8–10 times per pain point or until local twitch responses are no longer elicited and 30 min of indwelling. The PRF group will receive ultrasound-guided intramuscular (0.9% saline 2 mL, 42℃, 2 Hz, 2 min) and interfascial (0.9% saline 5 mL, 42℃, 2 Hz, 2 min) PRF. Follow-up will be performed by the research assistant at 0, 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. The primary outcome is the postoperative 6-month pain visual analogue score (0–100 mm). Secondary outcomes include pressure pain threshold measured by an algometer, Neck Disability Index, depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7), sleep status (Likert scale) and overall quality of life (36-Item Short Form Survey). Between-group comparisons will be analysed using either a non-parametric test or a mixed effects linear model.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the medical ethics committee of Peking Union Medical College Hospital (JS-3399). All participants will give written informed consent before participation. The results from this study will be shared at conferences and disseminated in international journals.

Trial registration number

NCT 05637047, Pre-results.
Association between serum uric acid and measures of adiposity in Chinese adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Shuying , Feng Li , Sun Xiaoxiao , Ding Jie , Zhou Weihong
Published: May 2023

Objective

The purposes of the study were to investigate the detailed association of serum uric acid (SUA) with visceral fat area (VFA) and body fat percentage (BFP) as calculated by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and build non-invasive diagnosis models of hyperuricaemia by combining obesity-related indicators, age and sex.

Method

A total of 19 343 adults were included. Multivariable regression analysis models were employed to analyse the association of SUA with VFA and BFP. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated to diagnose hyperuricaemia in adults.

Results

After fully adjusting for covariates, SUA was positively associated with VFA, BFP and body mass index (BMI) with βs of 0.447, 2.522 and 4.630 (95% CI= (0.412 to 0.482), (2.321 to 2.723) and (4.266 to 4.994)). After stratification by gender, this association persists (p<0.001). Fitted smoothing curves identified non-linear relationships between SUA and both VFA and BMI after full adjustment in males (inflection points: 93.9 cm2and 30.9 kg/m2). A non-linear relationship also exists between SUA and BFP in females (inflection point: 34.5%). A combined model incorporating BFP, BMI, age and sex exhibited the best ability to diagnose hyperuricaemia (AUC (area under the curve) =0.805, specificity=0.602, sensitivity=0.878). For normal-weight and lean populations, individuals with hyperuricaemia tended to have higher levels of VFA and BFP in females and males, respectively (p<0.001). The combination of VFA, BFP, BMI, age and sex exhibited the best ability to diagnose hyperuricaemia in normal-weight and lean populations (AUC=0.803, specificity=0.671, sensitivity=0.836).

Conclusion

VFA and BFP are independent factors associated with SUA. In males, SUA shows a non-linear relationship with VFA and BMI. In females, SUA and BFP exhibit a non-linear relationship. In normal-weight and lean individuals, the accumulation of VFA and BFP may be involved in hyperuricaemia. VFA and BFP were helpful in diagnosing hyperuricaemia in adults, especially for normal-weight and lean populations.
Prevalence of angina pectoris and association with coronary atherosclerosis in a general population
Authors: Welén Schef Kerstin , Tornvall Per , Alfredsson Joakim , Hagström Emil , Ravn-Fischer Annica , Soderberg Stefan , Yndigegn Troels , Jernberg Tomas
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the contemporary prevalence of, and factors associated with angina pectoris symptoms, and to examine the relationship to coronary atherosclerosis in a middle-aged, general population.

Methods

Data were based on the Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS), in which 30 154 individuals were randomly recruited from the general population between 2013 and 2018. Participants that completed the Rose Angina Questionnaire were included and categorised as angina or no angina. Subjects with a valid coronary CT angiography (CCTA) were categorised by degree of coronary atherosclerosis; ≥50% obstruction (obstructive coronary atherosclerosis), <50% obstruction or any atheromatosis (non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis) or none (no coronary atherosclerosis).

Results

The study population consisted of 28 974 questionnaire responders (median age 57.4 years, female 51.6%, hypertension 19.9%, hyperlipidaemia 7.9%, diabetes mellitus 3.7%), of which 1025 (3.5%) fulfilled the criteria of angina. Coronary atherosclerosis was more common in individuals having angina compared with those with no angina (n=24 602, obstructive coronary atherosclerosis 11.8% vs 5.4%, non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis 38.9% vs 37.0%, no coronary atherosclerosis 49.4% vs 57.7%, all p<0.001). Factors independently associated with angina were birthplace outside of Sweden (OR 2.58 (95% CI 2.10 to 2.92)), low educational level (OR 1.41 (1.10 to 1.79)), unemployment (OR 1.51 (1.27 to 1.81)), poor economic status (OR 1.85 (1.38 to 2.47)), symptoms of depression (OR 1.63 (1.38 to 1.92)) and high degree of stress (OR 2.92 (1.80 to 4.73)).

Conclusion

Angina pectoris symptoms are common (3.5%) among middle-aged individuals of the general population of Sweden, though with low association to obstructive coronary atherosclerosis. Sociodemographic and psychological factors are highly associated with angina symptoms, irrespective of degree of coronary atherosclerosis.
Non-COVID-19 intensive care admissions during the pandemic: a multinational registry-based study
Authors: McLarty Joshua , Litton Edward , Beane Abigail , Aryal Diptesh , Bailey Michael , Bendel Stepani , Burghi Gaston , Christensen Steffen , Christiansen Christian Fynbo , Dongelmans Dave A , Fernandez Ariel L , Ghose Aniruddha , Hall Ros , Haniffa Rashan , Hashmi Madiha , Hashimoto Satoru , Ichihara Nao , Kumar Tirupakuzhi Vijayaraghavan Bharath , Lone Nazir I , Arias López Maria del Pilar , Mat Nor Mohamed Basri , Okamoto Hiroshi , Priyadarshani Dilanthi , Reinikainen Matti , Soares Marcio , Pilcher David , Salluh Jorge
Published: May 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a large number of critical care admissions. While national reports have described the outcomes of patients with COVID-19, there is limited international data of the pandemic impact on non-COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care treatment.

Methods

We conducted an international, retrospective cohort study using 2019 and 2020 data from 11 national clinical quality registries covering 15 countries. Non-COVID-19 admissions in 2020 were compared with all admissions in 2019, prepandemic. The primary outcome was intensive care unit (ICU) mortality. Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality and standardised mortality ratio (SMR). Analyses were stratified by the country income level(s) of each registry.

Findings

Among 1 642 632 non-COVID-19 admissions, there was an increase in ICU mortality between 2019 (9.3%) and 2020 (10.4%), OR=1.15 (95% CI 1.14 to 1.17, p<0.001). Increased mortality was observed in middle-income countries (OR 1.25 95% CI 1.23 to 1.26), while mortality decreased in high-income countries (OR=0.96 95% CI 0.94 to 0.98). Hospital mortality and SMR trends for each registry were consistent with the observed ICU mortality findings. The burden of COVID-19 was highly variable, with COVID-19 ICU patient-days per bed ranging from 0.4 to 81.6 between registries. This alone did not explain the observed non-COVID-19 mortality changes.

Interpretation

Increased ICU mortality occurred among non-COVID-19 patients during the pandemic, driven by increased mortality in middle-income countries, while mortality decreased in high-income countries. The causes for this inequity are likely multi-factorial, but healthcare spending, policy pandemic responses, and ICU strain may play significant roles.
Pairing correlation of the three-band Hubbard model with the nearest attraction
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Xue Zimu , Yang Chen , Ma Tianxing
Published: May 2023

To gain a deeper understanding of the high-temperature superconductivity in doped cuprates, the constrained-path quantum Monte Carlo method was used to explore the superconducting pairing correlation function and effective pairing interaction in the three-band Hubbard model. Our main observation was that in the low doping region, compared to other symmetries, [Formula: see text]-wave superconducting pairing dominates. The Coulomb interaction [Formula: see text] suppresses [Formula: see text]-wave pairing correlation, while the effective pairing interaction is both enhanced by the increasing [Formula: see text] and the nearest attraction. These results are used to understand the superconducting state in copper oxide high-temperature superconductors.
Floral and faunal biostratigraphy of the Middle–Upper Triassic Karamay and Huangshanjie formations from the southern Junggar Basin, China
Authors: Peng Jungang , Slater Sam M. , Vajda Vivi
Published: May 2023

In the Junggar Basin, northwestern China, the biostratigraphy and vegetation patterns of the Middle–Late Triassic sediments are comparatively poorly resolved. Here we investigate Middle–Late Triassic successions of the Dalongkou Section in the southern Junggar Basin for palynostratigraphy and vegetation patterns. Three palynological abundance zones are proposed here: the
Aratrisporites
Abundance Zone (Middle Triassic), the
Dictyophyllidites
–
Aratrisporites
Abundance Zone (latest Middle to early Late Triassic) and the
Lycopodiacidites
–
Stereisporites
informal abundance zone (Late Triassic). A review of previous records of the
Fukangichthys
Fauna indicates that this vertebrate fossil assemblage is stratigraphically located within the uppermost part of the Karamay Formation and is Middle Triassic in age. The revised dating of this and other faunas are further used to constrain the palynological zones in the Junggar Basin. Although the palynoflora is consistently dominated by non-striate bisaccate pollen (produced by seed ferns and/or conifers) in the studied section, spores record a distinctive abundance increase during the late Middle Triassic. Spore taxon abundance changes indicate a vegetational shift from a Middle Triassic–early Late Triassic community characterized by abundant lycophytes (likely
Annalepis
and
Pleuromeia
) to a Late Triassic ecosystem with abundant dipteridaceous ferns (e.g.
Dictyophyllum
) in the Junggar Basin and across North China. This study updates the Triassic biostratigraphy in the Junggar Basin, and sheds light on temporal floral changes in this basin and elsewhere in North China during the Middle to Late Triassic.
Matching on the Line Admits no \(o(\sqrt {\log n})\) -Competitive Algorithm
Authors: Peserico Enoch , Scquizzato Michele
Published: May 2023

We present a simple proof that no randomized online matching algorithm for the line can be

\((\sqrt {\log _2(n+1)}/15)\)

-competitive against an oblivious adversary for any
n
= 2

i

- 1 :
i
∈ ℕ. This is the first super-constant lower bound for the problem, and disproves as a corollary a recent conjecture on the topology-parametrized competitiveness achievable on generic spaces.
Continuous Purification of Molten Chloride Salt: Electrochemical Behavior of MgOHCl Reduction
Authors: Witteman Liam , Rippy Kerry , Taylor Patrick , Vidal Judith
Published: May 2023

We present a study on the electrochemical behavior of magnesium hydroxide (MgOH+) reduction on a tungsten (W) cathode in molten chloride salt (MgCl2-KCl-NaCl) across the temperature range of 475 °C–525 °C. MgOH+, which forms within the salt upon exposure to moisture, is a leading cause of corrosion. Corrosion is a major barrier to deployment of chloride salts across a number of applications, including concentrating solar power plants and nuclear power plants. While pre-purification protocols have been developed to ensure MgOH+ is removed from molten chloride salts prior to deployment, MgOH+ forms in situ during operation of chloride-salt based plants. Thus, methods for continuous purification during plant operation are needed. Continuous electrochemical purification via electrolysis using a Mg anode and W cathode has been proposed, but little has been done to assess scalability. Here, we assess fundamental properties of electrochemical removal of MgOH+ to enable future scale up of this method.
The Role of Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Determining Pit Stability of FeCr Alloys
Authors: Wang Ying , Ng Man Fai , Tan Teck Leong , Blackwood Daniel John
Published: May 2023

Pitting corrosion is one of the most dangerous forms of corrosion, leading to sudden catastrophic failures in engineering system. Once initiated, pit propagation rates are largely dependent on the magnitude of the supporting cathodic current available from the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) occurring on the external passive film. Here the ORR kinetics on conventional and high Cr content FeCr alloys made by arc-melter were investigated by experimental and computational methods. DFT calculations suggested that the overpotentials for the ORR on FeCr oxides are in the order Cr2O3 > Fe3O4 > Fe2O3 > FeCr2O4, which was experimentally confirmed on the FeCr alloys by rotating disc electrode experiments in both O2 saturated 0.1 M NaOH and 3.5 wt% NaCl. Koutecký-Levich analysis demonstrated that ORR follows a 4-electron pathway on all surfaces investigated. Moreover, the investigation of the Pourbaix diagrams of FeCr revealed that at potentials where pitting corrosion initiates the main constituents of the passive films should be a mixture of Fe2O3 and Cr2O3, rather than FeCr2O4, which is proved to be a good ORR catalyst. The results support the postulation that one role Cr additions play in the prevention of pitting corrosion is to suppress the ORR reaction.
Systemic Reprogramming of Endothelial Cell Signaling in Metastasis and Cachexia
Authors: Preuss Stephanie F. , Grieshober Denise , Augustin Hellmut G.
Published: May 2023

Proliferating cancer cells secrete a multitude of factors impacting metabolism, interorgan communication, and tumor progression. The distribution of tumor-derived factors to distant organs occurs via the circulation, which provides an extensive reactive surface lined by endothelial cells. Primary tumor-derived proteins impact cancer progression by modulating endothelial cell activation at the (pre-)metastatic niche, which affects tumor cell dissemination as well as the outgrowth of seeded metastatic cells into overt tumors. In addition, new insight indicates that endothelial cell signaling contributes to metabolic symptoms of cancer, including cancer-associated cachexia, opening a new field of vascular metabolism research. This review addresses how tumor-derived factors systemically affect endothelial cell signaling and activation and impact distant organs as well as tumor progression.
Prediction of Liver Steatosis and Fibrosis Based on Clinical Variables Using a Large National Survey Database
Authors: Alnimer Yanal , Alnimer Touleen
Published: May 2023

Background. Vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTA) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) are used more frequently to diagnose liver fibrosis and steatosis among nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients. However, limited robust data are available on the clinical variables strongly related to these disorders and who needs to be referred for screening. Methods. We used the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2017-2018 database to identify the clinical predictors strongly related to liver steatosis and advanced fibrosis. Baseline comparisons among these groups were made based on widely accepted cutoffs. Linear and logistic regressions were performed to identify the associations between the clinical variables and liver steatosis and fibrosis. We used adaptive lasso regression, gradient-boosted model, and decision trees to determine clinical variables strongly related to these outcomes. A Naïve Byes classifier and decision trees were used to calculate the predicted probabilities of liver steatosis and fibrosis. Results. 32% of our population had evidence of liver steatosis using 294 dB/m as a cutoff. An increase in age, serum triglyceride, and body mass index were associated with a statistically significant increase in liver steatosis; in contrast, females had statistically significantly lower values for liver steatosis by 15 points in the multivariable linear regression model. Serum LDL, smoking, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure are poorly associated with liver steatosis in the adaptive lasso regression. On the other hand, sex, tobacco use, metabolic energy expenditure, and serum triglyceride are the least associated with liver fibrosis based on decision tree analysis and a gradient-boosted model. In decision trees, people with a body mass index above 30 and HbA1c above 5.7 have a 72% likelihood of liver steatosis compared to 14% for people with a body mass index below 30. On the other hand, people with a body mass index above 41 have a 38% likelihood of liver fibrosis. Conclusion. Body mass index, hemoglobin A1c, serum triglyceride level, sex, and age could provide a good prediction for liver steatosis, while body mass index, blood pressure, platelet counts, hemoglobin A1c, serum LDL, or HDL are highly associated with liver fibrosis and should be used as an initial screening tool prior referral for VCTE/CAP.
Environmental Supply Chain Performance Mapping of an Enterprise by Exploring a Novel Vague-Intellectual Approach
Authors: Wang Juan , Prabhu M. , Sewagegn Abatihun Alehegn , Sahu Anoop Kumar
Published: May 2023

The authors notified the two momentous Research Gaps (RGs) via conducting the relevant literature survey. The authors found as first RG that there are still no mathematical models that could address the generalized trapezoidal fuzzy set (GTFs) based green supply chain performance measurement (GSCPM) multi-level hierarchical index for computing the performance of a production enterprise in % except in the forms of GTF set/scale/crisp value. Next, as the second research gap, the authors identified that a few research articles are published in the extent of degree of similarity approaches. Entire approaches are limited to recognize the weak metrics under assessment of two GTFN sets from experts and also not competent to measure the performance gap of metrics from its ideal value. The objective of research work is turned to overcome the identified two RGs. To fulfill the first RG, the authors first of all proposed the two GTFN set-based mathematical models, which are executed to compute the priority weights and appropriateness ratings (PWsaARs) for 1st level measures from 2nd level PWsaARs of metrics (discarded the requirement of PWsaARs data for 1st level measures from experts). Furthermore, the authors developed GTFN set-based novel fuzzy performance index (NFPI) approach (by combining the crisp as well as fuzzy percentage rule over FPI) to compute the performance in %. To address the second RG, the degree of similarity (DoS) approach is modified by introducing idea of negative and positive ideal solution into DoS (eliminate the need for assessment of two GTFN sets from experts). Next, modified DoS is applied over evaluated FPII (fuzzy performance importance index) to identify the weak and strong metrics and also quantify the GSCP gap of metrics from its ideal value. Eventually, the research work is demonstrated with empirical case research of an automobile parts manufacturing industry.
Postprocessing of MRIs Using FreeSurfer in Epilepsy Surgery Patients Provides an Excellent Imaging Marker of Hippocampal Sclerosis but Fails to Separate Subtypes
Authors: Kloster Ane G. , Opheim Giske , Alfstad Kristin Å. , Larsen Karen B. , Niehusmann Pitt , Holm Emil , Fink-Jensen Philip , Lund Eva Løbner , Jespersen Bo , Ivanovic Jugoslav , Rubboli Guido , Madsen Camilla G. , Marthinsen Pål B. , Ganz Melanie , Lossius Morten , Pinborg Lars H.
Published: May 2023

Objective. Histopathological examinations will diminish as minimally invasive epilepsy surgery increasingly replaces open surgery. The objective of this study was to test if visual and computer-aided quantitative analyses of presurgical high-quality 3 Tesla MRIs complying with the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Neuroimaging Task Force recommendations can inform on histopathological diagnosis. Methods. Ninety-two patients from Copenhagen and Oslo University Hospitals fulfilled patient-, imaging-, and histopathological inclusion criteria: 69 patients were diagnosed with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) ILAE type 1 or 2, and 23 patients had normal appearing hippocampi or other histopathology than HS (no-HS). MRIs from 52 healthy controls (HC) were included. Image processing was performed in FreeSurfer v.6.0 with the built-in cross-sectional hippocampal subfield segmentation tool and multimodal MRI input. Volume outputs were used to calculate volume asymmetry ratios (VARs) for whole hippocampus (WH) and subfields. Results. HS patients had significantly larger WH VARs compared to no-HS patients and HC, with a

sensitivity
=
0.93

and

specificity
=
1.0

for histopathological HS diagnosis. Visual MRI assessment yielded a

sensitivity
=
0.90

and

specificity
=
0.96

for histopathological HS diagnosis. CA1 and CA4 VARs and the number of seizure-free patients were not significantly different in HS ILAE type 1 compared to type 2 patients. Significance. FreeSurfer analyses of presurgical MRIs are excellent at separating patients histopathologically diagnosed with HS from patients with other pathology or normal appearing hippocampi. Using the FreeSurfer hippocampal subfield segmentation tool did not allow for separating HS ILAE subtypes.
Experimental Investigations of Nano Finishing Process on Nickel-Free Austenitic Stainless Steel by Grey Relational and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Kathiresan S. , Anbuchezhiyan G. , Karthikeyan S. , Palani Kumaran
Published: May 2023

The nano surface roughness of metallic materials is important in engineering and medical fields for specific applications. Magneto rheological abrasive flow finishing (MRAFF) process was performed on nickel-free austenitic stainless workpieces in order to obtain surface roughness at the nano level and also to forecast the performance of the MRAFF process in terms of responses such as surface roughness (SR) and material removal rate (MRR). These two responses are affected by process factors such as hydraulic pressure, current to the electromagnet, and the number of cycles performed during the machining process. The design of experiments (DOE) was used to determine the contributions of process parameters to output responses. The techniques of grey relational analysis (GRA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used in these experimental investigations to discover the process factors that minimise the final Ra and maximise MRR. Through the DOE, a minimum SR of 63.24 nm and a maximum MRR of 2.34 mg/sec were obtained on the samples for the combination of 30 bar pressure, 6 A current, and 300 number of cycles.
Understanding the Barriers of Implementing a Self-Awareness Assessment in Occupational Therapy Practice within a Brain Injury Population: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Cheng Anika , Tsow Rebecca , Schmidt Julia
Published: May 2023

Background. Self-awareness is seldom formally assessed by occupational therapists among individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, impaired self-awareness is prevalent and has a significant impact on rehabilitation outcomes. There is a need to understand clinician perspectives on self-awareness assessments and promote evidence-based practice in clinical settings. Aims. (1) Explore how an education session impacts knowledge and use of self-awareness assessments in occupational therapists working with people with TBI; (2) Understand the barriers that occupational therapists experience when assessing self-awareness in clinical practice. Materials and Methods. A single-group pre-post session design with an integrated knowledge translation approach was used. Occupational therapists working in neurorehabilitation were recruited from two rehabilitation centres through convenience sampling. Participants completed questionnaires before, after, and three months following an education session about the Self-Awareness of Deficits (SADI) assessment. Results. 14 occupational therapists participated in this study. A statistically significant increase in knowledge and confidence in using the SADI was observed both post-session and at 3-month follow-up. Conclusion. Targeted and ongoing education promotes confidence and knowledge retention among occupational therapists. Further research should explore strategies to promote behaviour change. Significance. The barriers identified in this study can provide insights for knowledge translation across clinical contexts.
Design and Development of Parasitic Elements Loaded Quadband Frequency and Pattern Reconfigurable Antenna
Authors: Karthika K. , Kavitha K.
Published: May 2023

Modern communication demands a low-profile, versatile antenna. In this paper, a low-profile antenna of size

38
×
40
×
0.787
 
m

m

3

is proposed to reconfigure frequency and radiation pattern. The Rogers RT Duroid 5870 of dielectric constant 2.33 is used as a substrate. Frequency reconfiguration is achieved by connecting patches of different lengths corresponding to the resonant frequencies through three PIN diode switches. Switching on/off these three diodes results in frequency switching between four distinct frequency bands. The Yagi-Uda principle is utilized to alter the radiation pattern. Simple parasitic elements are loaded on either side of the radiating structure. Changing the electrical lengths of the parasitic elements using PIN diode switches facilitates pattern reconfiguration by making them behave as a reflector/director. The presented structure resonates at four distinct frequencies (5.3 GHz/3.82 GHz/2.77 GHz/2.2 GHz) with a maximum of three beam tilt angles for each resonating frequency. SMP1345-079LF PIN diode is used for switching operation. Biasing circuit has been designed to ensure RF and DC isolation. The proposed antenna offers acceptable radiation performance in all the switching states. The average measured gains are 2.43 dBi, 2.42 dBi, 3.5 dBi, and 3.29 dBi at 5.3 GHz, 3.82 GHz, 2.77 GHz, and 2.2 GHz, respectively. On an average, the proposed antenna exhibits the simulated efficiency of 81%. The proposed antenna is suitable for 5G communication as its bandwidth covers band 1, band 7, band 46, and band 77 of the 5G new radio (NR) standard. Fabrication and testing are done to validate the results.
Relationship between Sitting Time and Insulin Resistance in 6931 U.S. Adults: The Mediating Role of Abdominal Adiposity
Authors: Parker Kayla M. , Tucker Larry A. , Bailey Bruce W. , Davidson Lance E.
Published: May 2023

This cross-sectional investigation examined the relationship between sitting time and insulin resistance in 6931 U.S. adults. The mediating effects of several covariates were evaluated. Self-reported sitting time, measured in minutes per day, was the exposure variable. Insulin resistance (IR), indexed using the natural log of the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (L-HOMA-IR), was the outcome variable. This study used data collected from the 2011–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Results showed a strong, positive, dose-response association between sitting time and insulin resistance after adjusting for age, sex, race, and year of assessment (

F
=
12.6

,

p
<
0.0001

). Across the sitting time tertiles (low, moderate, and high), the L-HOMA-IR means (±SE) each differed from each other (

0.37
±
0.008

,

0.40
±
0.012

, and

0.43
±
0.012

). Further controlling for cigarette smoking and physical activity did not alter the significance of the relationship. Adding body mass index (BMI) to the demographic covariates weakened the relationship, but it remained significant. However, the association was no longer significant after adjusting for the demographic covariates and waist circumference (

F
=
1.1

,

p
=
0.3349

). None of the L-HOMA-IR means (±SE) differed from each other (

0.40
±
0.007

,

0.41
±
0.009

, and

0.41
±
0.008

). Overall, waist circumference was a powerful mediating variable between sitting time and insulin resistance. Apparently, time spent sitting is a powerful predictor of IR. However, much of the association between sitting time and IR is a function of differences in waist size. As a strong measure of abdominal adiposity and a significant predictor of multiple metabolic diseases, managing waist size is a health practice to consider when insulin resistance is a concern.
Non-Iatrogenic Localized-Reentrant Figure of Eight Atrial Tachycardias in the Superior Vena Cava
Authors: Tokuno Shota , Miyamoto Kenjiro , Usui Ryuichi
Published: May 2023

Introduction. The superior vena cava (SVC) is an important non-pulmonary venous foci of atrial fibrillation (AF) and is known as the arrhythmogenic site of scar-related atrial tachycardia (AT). Scar-related ATs may occur after catheter ablation and open heart surgery; however, idiopathic AT rarely occurs. Case Presentation. A 77-year-old male with terminal diabetic nephropathy complained of dialysis-induced hypotension due to AF and was admitted to our hospital for catheter ablation. Here, we report a case of non-iatrogenic localized-reentrant figure of eight AT in the SVC. Conclusion. SVC has the arrhythmogenic potential for re-entrant tachycardia, and the development of mapping technology can reveal arrhythmogenic mechanisms.
Effects of Dietary Bacillus licheniformis and Combined Herbs Extracts Supplementation on Physiological and Immune Characteristics, Microbial Community, and Vibriosis Resistance of Apostichopus japonicus
Authors: Wang Xuda , Li Shilei , Dong Ying , Mi Rui , Jiang Jingwei , Guan Xiaoyan , Ye Bo , Liu Guiying , Zhao Zhenjun , Liu Danni , Chen Zhong , Gao Xuewen , Zhang Chenyu , Zhou Zunchun
Published: May 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Bacillus licheniformis and combined herbs extracts on the physiological and immune characteristics, intestinal microbiota, and vibriosis resistance of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. The sea cucumbers were fed with basal diets supplemented with B. licheniformis (B group), combined herbs extracts (C group), or both (BC group). The BC group exhibited the better growth performance and higher digestive and immune enzyme activities, whereas the lowest parameters appeared in the control group. This revealed that dietary B. licheniformis and combined herbs extracts in combination could improve digestion, food intake, phosphatase-responsiveness, and oxidation resistance more efficiently compared with the other groups. The BC group was also more capable of regulating intestinal flora balance of sea cucumbers by increasing the beneficial bacteria related to energy synthesis and metabolic conversion, and inhibiting the potential pathogens associated with organic damage and metabolic disorders. Furthermore, the BC group showed greater ability of improving disease resistance by reducing the cumulative mortality rates and the counts of Vibrio splendidus. These results collectively demonstrated that dietary B. licheniformis and combined herbs extracts could improve the physiological and immune parameters, optimize the microbial community, and enhance the resistance to vibriosis of sea cucumbers, and the health-promoting effects were more obvious by supplying them in combination.