bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Federal Test Procedure (FTP75) driving cycle performance for PMSM‐fed hybrid electric vehicles using artificial neural network
Authors: Kakodia Sanjay Kumar , Dyanamina Giribabu
Published: September 2023

The sensorless speed control of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is gaining popularity in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) applications leading to its enhanced safety, reliability, and cost savings. Speed control using vector control for PMSM‐fed HEV requires the speed encoder. When the speed sensor information fails, the inverter must ensure power delivery to the PMSM continuously by estimating the speed; this mode of operation is referred as limp‐home mode in HEV. In this paper, a speed sensorless scheme has been proposed for PMSM‐based HEV during limp‐home mode operation. This paper presents a model reference adaptive system (MRAS) speed estimator based on an adaptive neural network controller (NNC) for speed estimation of PMSM. In the HEV application, in case of speed/position encoder failure, the speed of the PMSM can be estimated by stator flux using stator current.The proposed method employs stator currents in the reference model to eliminate the DC drift problem. Furthermore, the NNC is employed in the adaptation mechanism to improve the Federal Test Procedure (FTP75) driving cycle performance. The performance of the proposed control scheme has been validated with dSPACE 1104 R & D rapid development controller using vector control for the PMSM during variable speed and torque, including the zero‐speed applications
METTL3‐stabilized super enhancers‐lncRNA SUCLG2‐AS1 mediates the formation of a long‐range chromatin loop between enhancers and promoters of SOX2 in metastasis and radiosensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Hu Xinyu , Wu Jianfeng , Feng Yong , Ma Hongxia , Zhang Erbao , Zhang Chang , Sun Qi , Wang Tingting , Ge Yizhi , Zong Dan , Chen Wei , He Xia
Published: September 2023

Background

Super enhancers (SE) play pivotal roles in cell identity and diseases occur including tumorigenesis. The depletion of SE‐associated lncRNA transcripts, also known as super‐lncRNA, causes the activity of SE to be dysregulated.

Methods

We screened and identified an elevated metastasis‐associated SE‐lncRNA SUCLG2‐AS1 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) using RNA‐sequencing, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and bioinformatics. Western blotting, RT‐qPCR, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP), RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, RNA pull‐down and 3C (chromosome conformation capture assays) were used for mechanistic studies.

Results

SUCLG2‐AS1 was correlated with a poor prognosis. SUCLG2‐AS1 promotes NPC cell invasion and metastasis while repressing apoptosis and radiosensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, high SUCLG2‐AS1 expression occurred in an m6A‐dependent manner. SUCLG2‐AS1 was found to be located in the SE region of SOX2, and it regulated the expression of SOX2 via long‐range chromatin loop formation, which via mediating CTCF (transcription factor) occupied the SE and promoter region of SOX2, thus regulating the metastasis and radiosensitivity of NPC.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data suggest that SUCLG2‐AS1 may serve as a novel intervention target for the clinical treatment of NPC.
Combining aperiodic 1/f slopes and brain simulation: An EEG/MEG proxy marker of excitation/inhibition imbalance in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Martínez‐Cañada Pablo , Perez‐Valero Eduardo , Minguillon Jesus , Pelayo Francisco , López‐Gordo Miguel A. , Morillas Christian
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

Accumulation and interaction of amyloid‐beta (Aβ) and tau proteins during progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are shown to tilt neuronal circuits away from balanced excitation/inhibition (E/I). Current available techniques for noninvasive interrogation of E/I in the intact human brain, for example, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), are highly restrictive (i.e., limited spatial extent), have low temporal and spatial resolution and suffer from the limited ability to distinguish accurately between different neurotransmitters complicating its interpretation. As such, these methods alone offer an incomplete explanation of E/I. Recently, the aperiodic component of neural power spectrum, often referred to in the literature as the ‘1/f slope’, has been described as a promising and scalable biomarker that can track disruptions in E/I potentially underlying a spectrum of clinical conditions, such as autism, schizophrenia, or epilepsy, as well as developmental E/I changes as seen in aging.

METHODS

Using 1/f slopes from resting‐state spectral data and computational modeling, we developed a new method for inferring E/I alterations in AD.

RESULTS

We tested our method on recent freely and publicly available electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) datasets of patients with AD or prodromal disease and demonstrated the method's potential for uncovering regional patterns of abnormal excitatory and inhibitory parameters.

DISCUSSION

Our results provide a general framework for investigating circuit‐level disorders in AD and developing therapeutic interventions that aim to restore the balance between excitation and inhibition.
New methods for estimating the total wing area of birds
Authors: Fu Hellen (Yi) , Su Michelle , Chu Jonathan J. , Margaritescu Alexandra , Claramunt Santiago
Published: September 2023

Dispersal is a fundamental process in evolution and ecology. Due to the predominant role of flight in bird movement, their dispersal capabilities can be estimated from their flight morphology. Most predictors of flight efficiency require an estimate of the total wing area, but the existing methods for estimating wing area are multi‐stepped and prone to compounding error. Here, we validated a new method for estimating the total wing area that requires only the measurement of the wingspan plus two measurements from the folded wings of study skin specimens: wing length and wing width. We demonstrate that the new folded‐wing method estimates total wing area with high precision across a variety of avian groups and wing shapes. In addition, the new method performs as well as the old method when used to estimate natal dispersal distances of North American birds. The folded‐wing method will allow for estimates of the total wing to be readily obtained from thousands of specimens in ornithological collections, thus providing critical information for studies of flight and dispersal in birds.
Synthesis of Alkynyl Sulfides: Alkynyl Trifluoromethyl Sulfides and Thiocyanates
Authors: Zeng Chunling , Yuan Zhiwen , Jiao Yinchun , Peng Lifen , Tang Zilong , Xu Xinhua
Published: September 2023

Sulfur‐containing alkynes, are important starting materials and intermediates in organic reactions. Some of sulfur‐containing alkynes display interesting bioactivities and are potentially applied as drugs. Various synthetic methodologies towards sulfur‐containing alkynes have been developed, including C(sp)−S coupling, thiolation, S‐alkynylation, trifluoromethylthiolation, etc. In this review, the approaches towards alkynyl sulfides in recent 3 years, as well as to form alkynyl trifluoromethyl sulfides and alkynylthiocyanates were highlighted. Firstly, the property and application of alkynes were introduced. After presenting the superiority of sulfur‐containing alkynes, their synthetic methods were classified and presented in details. According to different kinds of sulfur‐containing alkynes, synthetic methodologies for alkynyl sulfides, alkynyl trifluoromethyl sulfides and alkynylthiocyanates were summarized and the proposed reaction mechanisms were demonstrated if available.
Distribution of SOFC thermal stress via helium gas (He) based cooling system
Authors: Fahs Imad‐Eddine , Ghassemi Majid , Fahs Hussein
Published: September 2023

Some electrochemical devices, such as fuel cells, transforms chemical energy to electricity. The main issue of SOFC's is the thermal stress caused by high operating temperature (700–1000°C). Thermal stress leads to crack initiation and propagation that in turn leads to gas leakage, structure instability and abrupt termination of the fuel cell (estimated in our previous work; 1.5% displacement of cathode electrode and the lifetime decreases by 40%–50%). The purpose of the current study is to show the influence of helium gas cooling system on SOFC cell performance. Using the coupled governing nonlinear differential equations, heat transfer, fluid flow, mass transfer, mass continuity, tortuosity effects and momentum. An in‐house computer code based on finite element method (FEM), computational structural mechanics, and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was utilized. The temperature and stress distribution are calculated using the Navier–Stokes thermo‐fluid, Darcy and energy models. The Results demonstrate that there is a high thermal stress and displacement in the absence of He gas cooling system, but in the case of He cooling system, thermal stress is much less and no displacement is noticed, which leads to an increase of the fuel cell's lifetime up to 35%–40%.
Regional variation of spectral parameters for seismic design from broadband probabilistic seismic hazard analysis
Authors: Weatherill Graeme A. , Danciu Laurentiu
Published: September 2023

The characterisation of the seismic hazard input is a critical element of any seismic design code, not only in terms of the absolute levels of ground motion considered but also of the shape of the design spectrum. In the case of Europe, future revisions of the seismic design provisions, both at a national and a pan‐European level, may implement considerable modifications to the existing provisions in light of recent seismic hazard models, such as the 2013 European Seismic Hazard Model. Constraint of the shape of the long‐period design spectrum from seismic hazard estimates on such a scale has not been possible, however, owing to the limited spectral period range of existing ground motion models. Building upon recent developments in ground motion modelling, the 2013 European Seismic Hazard Model is adapted here with a new ground motion logic tree to provide a broadband Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis for rock sites across a spectral period range from 0.05 seconds to 10.0 seconds. The resulting uniform hazard spectra (UHS) are compared against existing results for European and broadband Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis and against a proposed formulation of a generalised design spectrum in which controlling parameters can be optimised to best fit the uniform hazard spectra in order to demonstrate their variability on a European scale. Significant variations in the controlling parameters of the design spectrum are seen both across and within stable and active regions. These trends can help guide recalibrations of the code spectra in future revisions to seismic design codes, particularly for the longer‐period displacement spectrum.
Seismic damage analysis due to near‐fault multipulse ground motion
Authors: Chen Guan , Yang Jiashu , Wang Ruohan , Li Kaiqi , Liu Yong , Beer Michael
Published: September 2023

Near‐fault pulse‐like ground motion is a significant class of seismic records since it tends to cause more severe damage to structures than ordinary ground motions. However, previous researches mainly focus on single‐pulse ground motions. The multipulse ground motions that exist in records receive rare attention. In this study, an analysis procedure is proposed to investigate the effect of multipulse ground motions on structures by integrating finite element analysis and an identification method that features each pulse in the multipulse ground motion satisfying the same evaluation criteria. First, the Arias intensity, wavelet‐based cumulative energy distribution, and response spectra of identified non‐, single‐, and multipulse ground motions are compared. Then, the seismic damage on frame structures, a soil slope, and a concrete dam under non‐, single‐, and multipulse ground motions are analyzed. Results show that the spectral velocity of multipulse ground motions is significantly greater than those of non‐ and single‐pulse ground motions and potentially contains multiple peaks in the long‐period range. Seismic damage evaluation indicates that the maximum interstory drift of frame structures with high fundamental periods under multipulse ground motions is about twice that of nonpulse ground motions. Similar characteristics also exist in the soil slope and the concrete dam. Therefore, multipulse ground motions potentially cause more severe damage to structures compared to non‐ and single‐pulse ground motions. The findings of this study facilitate the recognition of the increased seismic demand imposed by the multipulse ground motion in engineering practices, provide new possibilities for ground motion selection in seismic design validation, and shed new light on seismic hazard and risk analysis in near‐fault regions.
Transition from an adolescent to an adult eating disorder treatment centre: A qualitative investigation of the experience of inpatients with anorexia nervosa and their carers using interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Scanferla Elisabetta , Seryer Sabrina , Pachoud Bernard , Gorwood Philip
Published: September 2023

Aims

To capture the subjective experience of eating disorder patients and their immediate family members in the transition between adolescent and adult treatment services and to explore how both groups make sense of this specific experience.

Design

Qualitative study in the form of in‐depth interviews using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Settings

Participants were recruited from a university department of a large psychiatric hospital specialising in eating disorders between July 2021 and September 2022.

Participants

A convenience sample of 18 participants was recruited, including 12 patients aged 19–30 years (m = 22.5, SD = 3.8) and six of their respective caregivers.

Results

Four main themes were identified in relation to the participants' experience of transition to adult care: (1) the detailed description of the transition process, (2) the emotions associated with this experience, (3) the challenges encountered and (4) recommendations for improving the process. Two fundamental meaning‐making processes emerged: the feeling of being "lost in transition" and the opportunity to "become an adult". The results highlighted the factors that characterise this experience for patients and their families, and the need for practical and psychological support during the transition process.

Conclusions

This study provides a unique insight into the experience of patients and their immediate family members regarding the transition from adolescent to adult care. It reveals the multidimensional impact of the transition experience and highlights the need for increased support for family members. These findings may provide new insights into interventions that promote successful transition and encourage rethinking the organisation of this crucial stage of the care pathway.
Estimation of heat release rate based on analysis of flame spread behavior in mattresses
Authors: Park Kye‐Won , Mizuno Masayuki , Cho Chang‐Geun , Jeong Jong‐Jin
Published: September 2023

To investigate the fire danger of mattresses, combustion experiments were conducted with a mattress installed at different heights above the floor to better understand their combustion behavior. The installation height was varied because the height of a mattress varies depending on the bed frame, and the combustion behavior is expected to change with the installation height. Experiments with a mattress installed at 0–515 mm above the floor revealed that the fire growth was faster, and the maximum heat release rate (HRR) increased with installation height. In contrast, in a series of experiments where a mattress was installed above a water pool, the flame spread rates and HRR histories were comparable for all installation heights. This demonstrate that the combustion behavior of the mattress was affected by the combustion of the molten mattress material that dropped to the floor, and this effect was influenced by the mattress installation height. Furthermore, we analyzed the HRR per unit area of mattress construction material using cone calorimeter tests to mimic the combustion taking place on the floor. Combining these results with the relation between the length of the burning part of a mattress at the front of flame spread and the HRR, we proposed a model for predicting the HRR history of mattress for a flame ignition at the center of its longitudinal side. The derived predictive model for the HRR history of mattress combustion emphasize that it is necessary to understand factors such as the intense radiant heat from the pool fire.
Optimized extraction technology of glutathione from ‘Haidao 86’ germ rice by response surface methodology
Authors: Ye Shengquan , Huang Junmei , Wu Wenlong , Chen Jianping , Zhong Saiyi , Qiu Guang , Zhang Wei , Chen Ru , Liu Yijun
Published: September 2023

Glutathione is an important functional component of ‘Haidao 86’, which has many important physiological functions in organisms and is widely used in medicine and other industries. In this study, the effects of four extraction methods (hot water extraction, formic acid extraction, ethanol extraction, and sulfuric acid extraction) on the yield of glutathione in ‘Haidao 86’ germ powders were studied by high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the yield of glutathione in hot water extraction was the highest. The effects of material–liquid ratio, temperature, pH, and time on the extraction rate of glutathione from ‘Haidao 86’ were investigated by single‐factor experiment and Box–Behnken combined experiment. The results showed that the order of influence on GSH yield was pH, temperature, material–liquid ratio, and time, and the interaction of extraction time and pH had a significant influence on glutathione yield of ‘Haidao 86’ germ powders. The optimum parameters for hot water extraction of glutathione from ‘Haidao 86’ germ powders were determined as follows: material–liquid ratio of 1:12, pH value of 2.8, temperature of 84.9°C, time of 14 min, and the extraction rate of glutathione was 139.68 mg/100 g. It provided the scientific proof for the development and industrial production of functional products of ‘Haidao 86’.
Use of dill extracts as a natural preservative on shelf‐life extension of rainbow trout croquettes during refrigerator storage
Authors: Caglak Emre , Karsli Baris
Published: September 2023

In this study, changes in quality parameters of rainbow trout croquettes treated with dill extracts obtained by brewing (BDA) and distillation (DDA) methods were investigated during 61 days of refrigerated storage (+2 ± 1°C). Physicochemical, microbial, and sensory parameters of the rainbow trout croquettes were analyzed once every 4 days. It was observed that the precooking process and additives influenced the nutrient composition and color change of the croquettes. Total volatile base nitrogen and thiobarbituric acid values did not exceed the limit values in any group during refrigerated storage and these values were found as 23.10 ± 0.89 mg/100 g and 3.13 ± 0.08 mg MDA/kg in the control group (C), 21.00 ± 0.92 mg/100 g and 2.77 ± 0.14 mg MDA/kg in BDA group, and 21.70 ± 0.92 mg/100 g and 2.85 ± 0.07 mg MDA/kg in DDA group, respectively. Extract treatments, especially DDA, resulted in a significant reduction in the counts of total aerobic mesophilic and psychotropic bacteria in trout croquettes compared to the control group. It was determined that the sensory scores of all croquette groups decreased during storage and the acceptability scores of the C, BDA, and DDA groups reached on the 33rd, 57th, and 61st days of storage, respectively. According to the results, this work demonstrated that the dill extracts both distilled and brewed can be used as a natural additive to improve the quality and extend the shelf life of rainbow trout croquettes.
Electrohydrodynamic capillary instability of Rivlin–Ericksen viscoelastic fluid film with mass and heat transfer
Authors: Awasthi Mukesh Kumar , Dutt Nitesh , Kumar Ashwani , Kumar Sunil
Published: September 2023

This paper presents an analysis of viscous fluids and a Rivlin–Ericksen (R‐E) viscoelastic fluid interface under the influence of heat and mass transfer, while both fluids are exposed to an axial electric field. The fluids are restricted within an annular region that is enclosed by two rigid cylinders. The outer section of the annular region holds the R‐E viscoelastic fluid, while the inner section is filled with the viscous fluid. To ascertain the correlation between perturbation growth and wavenumber, the theory of potential flow on viscoelastic–viscous fluids is applied, and the result is represented as a second‐order polynomial. This correlation is numerically solved using the Newton–Raphson method. Variables of viscous flow, such as electric field strength, heat transfer coefficient, viscoelasticity, viscosity, and so forth, are numerically studied. With an increase in electric field strength, the perturbation growth decays and expands for the particular combinations of permittivity and conductivity ratio, showing the dual effect of the axial electric field.
Empiric antibiotics for peripartum bacteremia: A chart review from a quaternary Canadian centre
Authors: Mohn Sarah F. , Reimer Renee , Mar Nicole , Katelieva Angela , Paquette Vanessa , Albert Arianne Y. K. , Roberts Ashley , Tilley Peter , McClymont Elisabeth , Ting Joseph , Boucoiran Isabelle , Elwood Chelsea
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of empiric antibiotic protocols for peripartum bacteremia at a quaternary institution by describing incidence, microbial epidemiology, clinical source of infection, susceptibility patterns, and maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of peripartum patients with positive blood cultures between 2010 and 2018.

Results

The incidence of peripartum bacteremia was 0.3%. The most cultured organisms were Escherichia coli (51, 26.7%), Streptococcus spp. (52, 27.2%), and anaerobic spp. (35, 18.3%). Of the E. coli cases, 54.9% (28), 19.6% (10), and 19.6% (10) were resistant to ampicillin, first‐ and third‐generation cephalosporins, respectively. Clinical sources of infection included intra‐amniotic infection/endometritis (115, 67.6%), upper and/or lower urinary tract infection (23, 13.5%), and soft tissue infection (8, 4.7%). Appropriate empiric antibiotics were prescribed in 137 (83.0%) cases. There were 7 ICU admissions (4.2%), 18 pregnancy losses (9.9%), 9 neonatal deaths (5.5%), and 6 cases of neonatal bacteremia (3.7%).

Conclusion

Peripartum bacteremia remains uncommon but associated with maternal morbidity and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Current empiric antimicrobial protocols at our site remain appropriate, but continuous monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns is critical given the presence of pathogens resistant to first‐line antibiotics.
Exploring phosphoryl oxygen basicity in U(VI) complexation: A comparative study from trialkyl phosphate to phosphine oxide
Authors: Sachin Aditya Ramesh , Gopakumar Gopinadhanpillai , Rao Cherukuri Venkata Siva Brahmananda , Nagarajan Sivaraman
Published: September 2023

The conventional argument that extraction efficiency depends on the “basicity of the phosphoryl oxygen” is thoroughly examined in this study. The analysis involves studying the electronic structures of various ligands, such as phosphate, phosphonate, phosphinate, and phosphine oxide, as well as variations in their alkyl chain length, and their corresponding uranium complexes. The studies revealed a significant amount of destabilizing strain and steric repulsion for ligands having longer alkyl chains upon complexation. A considerable amount of stabilizing orbital and dispersion interactions compensate for these repulsions, forming stable complexes. Dispersion interactions become more significant upon chain elongation and are mainly responsible for the preference for U(VI) metal ions by ligands with lengthy alkyl chain units. The preference of phosphine oxide ligands for U(VI) is analyzed within the context of enhanced orbital interactions resulting from the energetically close donor (ligand) and acceptor (metal nitrate) orbitals. Additionally, dispersion‐based interactions also become significant, especially with larger chain lengths. The electronegative environment around the phosphorus atom, along with the existence of low‐dipole moment structures, is also examined in relation to their possible role in solvent extraction and their influence on the selectivity of ligands for uranyl species.
Downregulation of AP1S1 causes the lysosomal degradation of EGFR in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Jeong Jangho , Hwang Ye Eun , Lee Minwoo , Keum Seula , Song Seongeun , Kim Jung‐Woong , Choi Jee‐Hye , Rhee Sangmyung
Published: September 2023

Matrix stiffness has been shown to play a critical role in cancer progression by influencing various cellular processes, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the role of adaptor‐related protein complex 1 subunit sigma 1 (AP1S1), a component of adaptor protein complex‐1, in the regulation of EGF receptor (EGFR) intracellular trafficking during cancer cell progression. We found that AP1S1 expression was upregulated under stiff matrix conditions, resulting in the regulation of EGFR trafficking in non‐small cell lung adenocarcinoma cells. Knockout of AP1S1 caused the lysosomal degradation of EGFR, leading to suppressed EGF‐induced anaplastic lymphoma receptor tyrosine kinase phosphorylation. In addition, the downregulation of AP1S1 increased the sensitivity of H1975 cancer cells, which are resistant to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, to erlotinib. Collectively, our results suggest that AP1S1 could regulate EGFR recycling under stiff matrix conditions, and AP1S1 inhibition could be a novel strategy for treating cancer cells resistant to EGFR‐targeted anticancer drugs.
Development and evaluation of an educational resource for parents of children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome about the psychiatric manifestations of the condition
Authors: Blankenship Kayla , Chieffo Stephanie , Morris Emily , Slomp Caitlin , Batallones Rolan , Prijoles Eloise , Hill‐Chapman Crystal , Austin Jehannine
Published: September 2023

Parents of children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) report concern about the psychiatric manifestations of the condition, but typically receive little information about this in clinical encounters and instead find information about it elsewhere. We developed an educational booklet about the psychiatric manifestations of 22q11DS and assessed its utility among parents of children with the condition. First, six parents of individuals with 22q11DS completed cognitive interviews to review an established generic booklet about the genetics of psychiatric conditions—and to suggest 22q11DS‐specific adaptations. We used these suggestions to develop a novel booklet specific to psychiatric conditions and 22q1DS. Then, before and 1‐month after reading the novel 22q11DS‐specific online booklet, 73 parents of children with 22q11DS (with/without psychiatric conditions) completed validated scales (measuring empowerment, stigma, intolerance of uncertainty), an adapted version of a scale measuring worry about their child developing psychiatric illness, and purpose‐designed items assessing perceptions of understanding of 22q11DS and mental illness, confidence in recognizing early signs, etc. After reading the 22q11DS online booklet, participants' feelings of empowerment increased (p = 0.002), while feelings of worry about their child developing psychiatric illness decreased (p = 0.05), and they reported better understanding 22q11DS and mental illness, and increased confidence in recognizing early warning signs. There is potential benefit in broadly distributing this educational booklet to parents of children with 22q11DS.
Impact of antithrombotic therapy on postpancreatectomy hemorrhage in 7116 patients: A project study by the Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery
Authors: Nakamura Kota , Nagai Minako , Matsumoto Ippei , Satoi Sohei , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Kawai Manabu , Hosouchi Yasuo , Higuchi Ryota , Mizuno Shugo , Ohtsuka Takao , Akahoshi Keiichi , Hakamada Kenichi , Unno Michiaki , Yamaue Hiroki , Nakamura Masafumi , Endo Itaru , Sho Masayuki
Published: September 2023

Background

We previously reported an association between antithrombotic therapy and an increased risk of postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH). To validate our findings, we conducted a large‐scale multicenter retrospective study from 63 high‐volume centers in Japan.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2018, 7116 patients who underwent pancreatectomy were enrolled. The antithrombotic group consisted of 920 patients (12.9%) who received preoperative antithrombotic agents including aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, prasugrel, warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants.

Results

PPH occurred in 235 (3.3%) of the patients. The incidence of PPH and mortality were significantly higher in the antithrombotic group than in the control group (5.7 vs. 3.0% and 2.2 vs. 0.9%, respectively; both p < .001). In multivariate analysis, a history of antithrombotic use was an independent risk factor for grade C PPH (p = .036). In the antithrombotic group, PPH tended to be delayed in the patients with restarting antithrombotic therapy. Notably, the occurrence of delayed PPH after restarting antithrombotic therapy was observed only when antithrombotic therapy was restarted within 10 days after pancreatectomy.

Conclusions

This multicenter study demonstrated that a history of antithrombotic use was a significant risk factor for PPH and mortality. In particular, the resumption of antithrombotic therapy in the early postoperative period should be done with caution.
Cheminformatics and systems pharmacology approaches to unveil the potential plant bioactives to combat COVID‐19
Authors: Muralitharan Dhivyadharshini , Varadharajan Venkatramanan , Venkidasamy Baskar
Published: September 2023

COVID‐19 was a global pandemic in the year 2020. Several treatment options failed to cure the disease. Thus, plant‐based medicines are becoming a trend nowadays due to their less side effects. Bioactive chemicals from natural sources have been utilised for centuries as treatment options for a variety of ailments. To find out the potent bioactive compounds to counteract COVID‐19, we use systems pharmacology and cheminformatics. They use the definitive data and predict the possible outcomes. In this study, we collected a total of 72 phytocompounds from the medicinally important plants such as Garcinia mangostana and Cinnamomum verum, of which 13 potential phytocompounds were identified to be active against the COVID‐19 infection based on Swiss Target Prediction and compound target network analysis. These phytocompounds were annotated to identify the specific human receptor that targets COVID‐19‐specific genes such as MAPK8, MAPK14, ACE, CYP3A4, TLR4 and TYK2. Among these, compounds such as smeathxanthone A, demethylcalabaxanthone, mangostanol, trapezifolixanthone from Garcinia mangostana and camphene from C. verum were putatively target various COVID‐19‐related genes. Molecular docking results showed that smeathxanthone A and demethylcalabaxanthone exhibit increased binding efficiency towards the COVID‐19‐related receptor proteins. These compounds also showed efficient putative pharmacoactive properties than the commercial drugs ((R)‐remdesivir, favipiravir and hydroxychloroquine) used to cure COVID‐19. In conclusion, our study highlights the use of cheminformatics approach to unravel the potent and novel phytocompounds against COVID‐19. These phytocompounds may be safer to use, more efficient and less harmful. This study highlights the value of natural products in the search for new drugs and identifies candidates with great promise.
Blood–Brain Barrier Disruption and Perivascular Spaces in Small Vessel Disease and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Review on MRI Methods and Insights
Authors: Voorter Paulien H. M. , van Dinther Maud , Jansen Willemijn J. , Postma Alida A. , Staals Julie , Jansen Jacobus F. A. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van der Thiel Merel M. , Backes Walter H.
Published: September 2023

Perivascular spaces (PVS) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption are two key features of cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) and neurodegenerative diseases that have been linked to cognitive impairment and are involved in the cerebral waste clearance system. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers the possibility to study these pathophysiological processes noninvasively in vivo. This educational review provides an overview of the MRI techniques used to assess PVS functionality and BBB disruption. MRI‐visible PVS can be scored on structural images by either (subjectively) counting or (automatically) delineating the PVS. We highlight emerging (diffusion) techniques to measure proxies of perivascular fluid and its movement, which may provide a more comprehensive understanding of the role of PVS in diseases. For the measurement of BBB disruption, we explain the most commonly used MRI technique, dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI, as well as a more recently developed technique based on arterial spin labeling (ASL). DCE MRI and ASL are thought to measure complementary characteristics of the BBB. Furthermore, we describe clinical studies that have utilized these MRI techniques in cSVD and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD). These studies demonstrate the role of PVS and BBB dysfunction in these diseases and provide insight into the large overlap, but also into the differences between cSVD and AD. Overall, MRI techniques may provide valuable insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these diseases and have the potential to be used as markers for disease progression and treatment response.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
The role of indium composition in InxGa1−xN prestrained layer towards optical characteristics of EBL free GaN/InGaN nanowire LEDs for enhanced luminescence
Authors: Das Samadrita , Lenka Trupti Ranjan , Talukdar Fazal Ahmed , Nguyen Hieu Pham Trung , Crupi Giovanni
Published: September 2023

In this work, an electron blocking layer (EBL) free light emitting diode (LED) nanowire is proposed with alternate prestrained layers of InxGa1−xN/GaN, which are inserted between the GaN/InGaN multi‐quantum wells (MQWs) and n‐GaN layer. This study signifies the role of prestrained layers on the piezoelectric polarization of LED nanowires, for enhanced luminescence. When compared with the conventional one, the EBL free LED nanowire with prestrained layer shows an enhancement of ~2.897% efficiency, which occurs due to the reduction of polarization field in the active region. The LED with 15% indium in the prestrained layer obtains a maximum efficiency of 85.21% along with a minimum efficiency droop of 3.848% at 40 mA injected current. The proposed III‐nitride LED nanostructure allows for achieving superior optical power across the output spectral range.
FOXA1 prolongs S phase and promotes cancer progression in non‐small cell lung cancer through upregulation of CDC5L and activation of the ERK1/2 and JAK2 pathways
Authors: Chen Gang , Wei Rui‐Shi , Ma Jie , Li Xin‐Hua , Feng Li , Yu Jian‐Rong
Published: September 2023

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) causes high mortality worldwide; however, its molecular pathways have not been fully investigated. The relationship between FOXA1 and CDC5L as well as their roles in NSCLC have not been comprehensively studied. Clinical tissues were collected from 78 NSCLC patients for clinical studies. The BEAS‐2B human normal lung epithelial cell line and the A549, Calu‐3, H526 and H2170 human NSCLC cell lines were used for in vitro studies. sh‐FOXA1 and oe‐CDC5L constructs were used to generate knockdown and overexpression models, respectively. The CCK‐8 assay was used to analyze cell viability. The cell cycle and apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry analysis. The relationship between FOXA1 and CDC5L was demonstrated using dual‐luciferase and ChIP assays. Gene levels were examined via immunohistochemistry, qRT‐PCR and western blot analysis. FOXA1 levels were increased in NSCLC clinical tissues and cell lines. Depletion of FOXA1 increased the apoptosis rate and increased the proportion of cells in G2/M phase. In addition, we demonstrated that FOXA1 was directly bound to the promoter of CDC5L and that depletion of FOXA1 inhibited CDC5L expression. Overexpression of CDC5L induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, induced JAK2 phosphorylation, inhibited cell apoptosis, prolonged S phase, and significantly reversed the effects of FOXA1 knockdown on the progression of NSCLC. The present study demonstrated that FOXA1 prolongs S phase and promotes NSCLC progression through upregulation of CDC5L and activation of the ERK1/2 and JAK2 pathways.
Unawareness of hepatitis B infection and lack of surveillance are associated with severity of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lee Kuan‐I , Liang Po‐Cheng , Hsu Po‐Yau , Jang Tyng‐Yuan , Wei Yu‐Ju , Huang Ching‐I , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Lin Zu‐Yau , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Huang Chung‐Feng , Huang Jee‐Fu , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chuang Wan‐Long , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: September 2023

Unawareness of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and lack of surveillance may serve as major barriers to HBV control and contributors to severe hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at presentation. This study evaluated the risk of HBV unawareness and its relationship with HCC severity. This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Taiwan. Patients with HBV‐related HCC diagnosed from 2011 to 2021 were enrolled. The demographic, clinical, and HCC characteristics were collected and compared between patients with HBV unawareness and awareness with and without surveillance. Of 501 HBV‐related HCC patients enrolled, 105 (21%) patients were unaware of HBV infection at the time of HCC diagnosis. Patients with HBV unawareness were significantly younger and had poorer liver function than those with HBV awareness. Patients with HBV unawareness also had a significantly higher rate of detectable HBV DNA and an advanced stage of HCC. Ninety‐one (23%) of the HBV‐aware patients did not receive regular surveillance. Patients with HBV unawareness and awareness without surveillance shared similar clinical characteristics with more severe HCC status. Further regression analysis demonstrated that HBV awareness with periodic surveillance was associated with early stage HCC. Meanwhile, we observed that there was no change in the proportion of HBV awareness over the past 10 years. Patients with surveillance also had better HCC survival than patients without surveillance or unawareness. HBV unawareness and lack of regular surveillance correlated with advanced HCC at presentation. Efforts to improve HBV education, disease awareness, and HCC surveillance are needed.
Compare the effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwave and hyperbaric oxygen therapy on enhancing wound healing in a streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rodent model
Authors: Chen Rong‐Fu , Lin Yun‐Nan , Liu Keng‐Fan , Lee Chia‐Chun , Hu Chieh‐Ju , Wang Chun‐Ting , Wang Ching‐Jen , Kuo Yur‐Ren
Published: September 2023

Studies have revealed that both extracorporeal shock‐wave therapy (ESWT) and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can accelerate wound healing. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of ESWT and HBOT in enhancing diabetic wound healing. A dorsal skin defect in a streptozotocin‐induced diabetes rodent model was used. Postoperative wound healing was assessed once every 3 days. Histologic examination was performed with hematoxylin and eosin staining. Proliferation marker protein Ki‐67 (Ki‐67), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) were evaluated with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The wound area was significantly reduced in the ESWT and HBOT groups compared to that in the diabetic controls. However, the wound healing time was significantly increased in the HBOT group compared to the ESWT group. Histological findings showed a statistical increase in neovascularization and suppression of the inflammatory response by both HBOT and ESWT compared to the controls. IHC staining revealed a significant increase in Ki‐67, VEGF, and eNOS but suppressed 8‐OHdG expression in the ESWT group compared to the HBOT group. ESWT facilitated diabetic wound healing more effectively than HBOT by suppressing the inflammatory response and enhancing cellular proliferation and neovascularization and tissue regeneration.
Environmental Sustainability: Waste Audit Comparison Operating Roomand In‐Office Laryngeal Surgery
Authors: Anderson Jennifer , Hu Huixin
Published: September 2023

Introduction

With vast improvements in imaging and endoscopic technology, there has been a massive shift towards in office procedures for various laryngeal disorders with significant health system and patient benefits. Another benefit which has yet to be investigated is the potential environmental effects and waste reduction of in‐office laryngeal procedures over traditional operating room surgery.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to perform a waste audit and compare the results between operating room and in‐office laser laryngeal surgery.

Methods

Ten cases of in‐office and operating room laser laryngeal surgery, performed for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, were subjected to a waste audit with four waste streams identified. Recyclable, general waste, anesthesia source and sharps. All waste was included from the time of case preparation to termination.

Results

The cases were extremely homogeneous in the waste produced. The mean waste total produced for the operating room laser surgery was 2972 g of which 18% was recoverable/recyclable. Contamination rate was very low. Recycling was performed very well by nursing/prep staff; however, anesthesia was not recovering 13% of potential materials.

The in‐office waste produced was approximately one tenth of the operating room waste with almost all delegated into general waste. Potentially divertible/recyclable materials accounted for 38% of the waste in‐office procedures.

Conclusions

In‐office laryngeal procedures produce 13% of waste compared to surgery performed for similar pathology. These procedures are cost effective, safe and have been demonstrated to enhance environmental sustainability.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:803–806, 2024
A Pilot Study of Decellularized Cartilage for Laryngotracheal Reconstruction in a Neonatal Pig Model
Authors: Gehret Paul M. , Dumas Alexandra A. , Jacobs Ian N. , Gottardi Riccardo
Published: September 2023

Objective

Severe subglottic stenosis develops as a response to intubation in 1% of the >200,000 neonatal intensive care unit infants per year and may require laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) with autologous hyaline cartilage. Although effective, LTR is limited by comorbidities, severity of stenosis, and graft integration. In children, there is a significant incidence of restenosis requiring revision surgery. Tissue engineering has been proposed to develop alterative grafting options to improve outcomes and eliminate donor‐site morbidity. Our objective is to engineer a decellularized, channel‐laden xenogeneic cartilage graft, that we deployed in a proof‐of‐concept, neonatal porcine LTR model.

Methods

Meniscal porcine cartilage was freeze–thawed and washed with pepsin/elastase to decellularize and create microchannels. A 6 × 10‐mm decellularized cartilage graft was then implanted in 4 infant pigs in an anterior cricoid split. Airway patency and host response were monitored endoscopically until sacrifice at 12 weeks, when the construct phenotype, cricoid expansion, mechanics, and histomorphometry were evaluated.

Results

The selective digestion of meniscal components yielded decellularized cartilage with cell‐size channels. After LTR with decellularized meniscus, neonatal pigs were monitored via periodic endoscopy observing re‐epithelization, integration, and neocartilage formation. At 12 weeks, the graft appeared integrated and exhibited airway expansion of 4 mm in micro‐CT and endoscopy. Micro‐CT revealed a larger lumen compared with age‐matched controls. Finally, histology showed significant neocartilage formation.

Conclusion

Our neonatal porcine LTR model with a decellularized cartilage graft is a novel approach to tissue engineered pediatric LTR. This pilot study sets the stage for “off‐the‐shelf” graft procurement and future optimization of MEND for LTR.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:807–814, 2024
Survival Benefit from Cancer‐Directed Surgery for Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Zhu Runqiu , Zhu Huiyong
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to gather evidence for the survival benefit of cancer‐directed surgery (CDS) in metastatic head and neck cancer (M1 HNC) and identify which patients will benefit most from CDS.

Methods

Patients with M1 HNC were identified within the SEER database. According to whether received CDS, patients were divided into the CDS and non‐CDS groups. The bias between the two groups was minimized using Propensity Score Matching (PSM), and the prognostic role of CDS was investigated using Kaplan–Meier analysis, log‐rank test, and Cox proportional hazard models. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the secondary endpoint was cancer‐specific survival (CSS).

Results

A total of 3215 patients with M1 HNC were extracted, including 566 patients who received CDS that were 1:1 propensity score‐matched with patients who did not receive CDS. In the matched dataset, the median OS and CSS in CDS groups were significantly higher than in non‐CDS groups (OS: 19.0 vs. 9.0 months, p < 0.001; CSS: 21.0 vs. 9.0 months, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, multivariable Cox regression analysis also revealed that CDS was a favorable prognostic factor for both OS and CSS. Furthermore, subgroups of patients with M1 HNC (younger age, being married, grade I–II, oropharynx site, earlier T/N stage, radiotherapy) were inclined to benefit from CDS, while those patients who received chemotherapy failed to benefit from CDS.

Conclusions

This study indicated that CDS was associated with improved survival in M1 HNC, especially for those subpopulations that benefit more from CDS treatment.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:1288–1298, 2024