bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CD27/CD70 pathway activation in primary cutaneous CD4+ small/medium T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorder
Authors: Richter Julia , Oschlies Ilske , Kock Katharina , Wüseke Thomas , Haag Jochen , Koch Karoline , Klapper Wolfram
Published: November 2023

Primary cutaneous CD4+ small or medium T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorder (PCSM‐LPD) is a clonal T‐cell proliferation disease confined to the skin. PCSM‐LPD shares expression of T follicular helper (Tfh) cell markers with various mature T‐cell lymphomas. However, the benign presentation of PCSM‐LPD contrasts the clinical behavior of other Tfh‐lymphomas. The aim of our study was to delineate the molecular similarities and differences between PCSM‐LPD and other Tfh‐derived lymphomas to explain the clinical behavior and unravel possible pathological mechanisms. We performed targeted next‐generation sequencing of 19 genes recurrently mutated in T‐cell neoplasms in n = 17 PCSM‐LPD with high and in n = 21 PCSM‐LPD with low tumor cell content. Furthermore, gene expression profiling was used to identify genes potentially expressed in the PD1‐positive (PD1+) neoplastic cells. Expression of some of these genes was confirmed in situ using multistain immunofluorescence. We found that PCSM‐LPD rarely harbored mutations recurrently detected in other T‐cell neoplasms. PCSM‐LPD is characterized by the invariable expression of the T‐cell‐receptor‐associated LCK protein. CD70 and its ligand CD27 are co‐expressed on PD1+ PCSM‐LPD cells, suggestive of autoactivation of the CD70 pathway. In conclusion, PCSM‐LPD differs from disseminated lymphomas of Tfh origin by their mutation profile. Activation of CD70 signaling also found in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma represents a potential driver of neoplastic proliferation of this benign neoplasia of Tfh. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Altered ventricular longitudinal strain in children with sickle cell disease: Role of TGF‐β and IL‐18
Authors: Wagdy Reham , Assem Hala , Abd‐Elmohsen Ali M. , Fata Aya , Gendy Wessam El , Gaber Marwa
Published: November 2023

Background

Cardiovascular involvement in sickle cell disease (SCD) has a great impact on patients’ morbidity and mortality. Recently, interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) were suggested as potential biomarkers for sickle cell cardiomyopathy. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a reliable early parameter for estimation of deformed myocardium. This study evaluated the role of TGF‐β and IL‐18 as risk indicators of altered strain in patients with SCD.

Methods

Forty children with SCD (age >5 years) and 40 healthy children as controls, matched in age and sex, were enrolled in the study. All participants were subjected to clinical examination, complete blood count, serum ferritin, TGF‐β, IL‐18, and assessment of cardiac function by echocardiography.

Results

TGF‐β, IL‐18, and lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly higher among cases (mean age: 10.6 ± 3.5 years) when compared to controls (p < .001), at cutoff values 41.7 ng/mL, 128.9 pg/mL, and 340 unit, respectively. The LS of free wall of RV (FW‐RV) was significantly lower among cases when compared to controls (−23.55% ± 5.55% vs. −28.73% ± 2.43%, p < .001). Free wall longitudinal strain of the right ventricle (FWLS‐RV) was significantly correlated to IL‐18 and LDH (p < .001), while GLS‐RV was significantly correlated to TGF‐β. The GLS‐LV was correlated to frequency of vaso‐occlusive crises (VOCs) per year (p < .001). Diastolic function, E/A of LV, and RV were negatively correlated to the hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels.

Conclusions

The TGF‐β, IL‐18, and LDH along with frequent VOCs are correlated to altered LS, especially the right ventricle, and could serve as risk indicators for subclinical cardiomyopathy in children with SCD.
Synthesis and effect of using silica fume particles on shear properties of basalt fibers‐epoxy composites
Authors: Azizi Hosna , Eslami‐Farsani Reza , Vaezi Mohammad Reza , Shokuhfar Ali
Published: November 2023

In this study, the effect of the addition of silica particles modified with silane agent on the mechanical properties of basalt fibers‐epoxy composites were studied with the interlayer shear strength (ILSS) test. In the first stage, silica fume particles were synthesized using the sol‐gel method and surface modified using tri mercaptopropyl trimethoxy silane agent. The results of the characterization showed that the synthesized powder is nanometric scale, amorphous and high purity. The surface‐modified silica fume particles (0, 2, 4, 6 wt.%) were distributed inside the epoxy matrix using a mechanical stirrer and ultrasonic waves. The hand lay‐up method was used to fabricate composite samples, then the effect of adding these particles on the mechanical properties of basalt fibers‐epoxy composites under interlayer shear loads was studied. The results of the research indicated that the addition of silica fume particles has a significant effect on improving the mechanical properties of basalt fibers‐epoxy composites, and the greatest improvement in mechanical properties was achieved by adding 4 wt.% of modified silica fume particles. In the case of composites without SF particles, the shear strength was 34 MPa, which was increased to 40 MPa by adding 4 wt.% of SF particles (about 20% improvement). On the other hand, results demonstrated that the optimal distribution of silica fume particles within the polymer matrix performs an impressive role in improving the mechanical response of composite samples.

Highlights

The use of silica fume in the polymer composite is one of the research innovations.

Silica fume is a super‐fine spherical powder that is collected as a by‐product.

The silane is used to better distribute and optimal interaction of the silica fume in epoxy.

Sol‐gel is one of the methods to synthesis of silica fume.

ILSS test was done to investigate the strength of the interface of basalt fibers and epoxy.
In situ exfoliation and surface functionalization of graphene oxide for epoxy composites with improved thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Xue Gang , Xing Jiye , Sun Mingming , Zhang Xugang , Liu Caizhao , Xue Shuangle , Yuan Zhigang , Zhang Bin
Published: November 2023

Wet mixing and solvent evaporation were used to prepare in situ exfoliation and surface functionalization of graphene oxide (GO). The structure and composition of diglycidyl 7‐oxabicyclo[4.1.0]heptane‐3,4‐dicarboxylate (TDE85) functionalized GO (TDE85‐GO) were characterized. A thorough investigation was done into how surface functionalization affected the shape and dispersion of GO as well as the mechanical and thermal performance of the TDE85‐GO/epoxy composites. TDE85‐GO was evenly distributed throughout the matrix as a result of the special preparation method and excellent interfacial interaction between the functionalized GO and epoxy. By incorporating 0.5 wt% of TDE85‐GO, the molecular weight between crosslinks decreased from 435.1 to 182.0 g/mol, and the glass transition temperature significantly increased by 45.7°C from 148.8 to 194.5°C. The tensile strength, Young's modulus, and elongation at break increased by 18.3%, 3.7%, and 29.9%, respectively. Moreover, thermomechanical and water resistance properties have also been improved. This approach is a workable one to produce high‐performance structural composites. This approach represents a practical strategy for developing high‐performance structural composites.

Highlights

In situ exfoliation and surface functionalization of graphene oxide.

Glass transition temperature increased by 45.7°C with 0.5 wt% of TDE85‐GO.

Tensile, thermomechanical, and water resistance properties were improved.
The Interplay between Strain, Sn Content, and Temperature on Spatially Dependent Bandgap in Ge1−xSnxMicrodisks
Authors: Zaitsev Ignatii , Corley-Wiciak Agnieszka Anna , Corley-Wiciak Cedric , Zoellner Marvin Hartwig , Richter Carsten , Zatterin Edoardo , Virgilio Michele , Martín-García Beatriz , Spirito Davide , Manganelli Costanza Lucia
Published: November 2023

Germanium–tin (GeSn) microdisks are promising structures for complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor‐compatible lasing. Their emission properties depend on Sn concentration, strain, and operating temperature. Critically, the band structure of the alloy varies along the disk due to different lattice deformations associated with mechanical constraints. An experimental and numerical study of Ge1−xSnxmicrodisk with Sn concentration between 8.5 and 14 at% is reported. Combining finite element method calculations, micro‐Raman and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy enables a comprehensive understanding of mechanical deformation, where computational predictions are experimentally validated, leading to a robust model and insight into the strain landscape. Through micro‐photoluminescence experiments, the temperature dependence of the bandgap of Ge1−xSnxis parametrized using the Varshni formula with respect to strain and Sn content. These results are the input for spatially dependent band structure calculations based on deformation potential theory. It is observed that Sn content and temperature have comparable effects on the bandgap, yielding a decrease of more than 20 meV for an increase of 1 at% or 100 K, respectively. The impact of the strain gradient is also analyzed. These findings correlate structural properties to emission wavelength and spectral width of microdisk lasers, thus demonstrating the importance of material‐related consideration on the design of optoelectronic microstructures.
Structural Stability, Tunable Electronic, and Optical Properties of XSi2N4/Cs2SnI6 (X = Cr, Mo, W) Heterostructures: First‐Principles Studies
Authors: Fang Liuru , Guo Yao , Bai Xiaojing , Xue Yuanbin , Lai Changwei , Song Haixiang , Wang Yuhua
Published: November 2023

Novel optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices are promising, exploiting MoSi2N4‐based van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures. Herein, six vertical XSi2N4/Cs2SnI6 (X = Cr, Mo, W) heterostructures are constructed and the atomic structure, stability, and optoelectronic properties via first‐principles calculations are investigated. The results of binding energies indicate that XSi2N4/SnI4 is energetically favorable to be established compared to the XSi2N4/CsI. Computed charge density differences show that at the XSi2N4/SnI4 interface, there is no significant charge migration or rearrangement, making it unsuitable for use in charge transport devices. It is worth noticing that the built‐in electric field induced by electron transfer from CsI to the XSi2N4 layer prevents light‐induced electron and hole recombination, thereby improving carrier lifetime. Furthermore, the CrSi2N4/CsI heterostructure exhibits a wider range of visible light absorption, demonstrating its potential for applications in photoelectronic devices. The electronic and optical properties of XSi2N4/Cs2SnI6 can be tuned through element substitution. The findings could provide useful guidance for designing XSi2N4/Cs2SnI6 photoelectronic and photovoltaic devices.
Mitigation of impacts of cattle access on stream ecosystems: Efficacy of fencing
Authors: O'Sullivan M. , Ó hUallacháin D. , Antunes P. O. , Jennings E. , Linnane Suzanne , Wynne Caroline , Kelly‐Quinn M.
Published: November 2023

Headwater streams can constitute up to 80% of river channel length and are vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures due to their high connectivity to adjacent land, large relative catchment size and low dilution capacity. In these environments, unrestricted cattle access is a potentially significant cause of water quality deterioration, resulting from increases in stream bank erosion, riparian damage and sediment deposition among others. Several studies have reported improvements in the physico‐chemical and hydromorphological conditions of streams following the elimination of cattle access; few, however, have focussed on the ecological impacts of such management practices. Here, such impacts are assessed. The study explores the short‐term effects of cattle exclusion by comparing habitat conditions, sediment deposition and instream macroinvertebrate communities upstream and downstream of cattle access points prior to, and 1 year following exclusion via fencing. The long‐term effects are also measured by reassessing a small stream catchment entirely fenced off from cattle access in 2008 under a dedicated management plan. In the short term, cattle exclusion led to a reduction in deposited sediment downstream of cattle access points and a related homogenisation of macroinvertebrate community structure between upstream and downstream of cattle access points. Increased abundances of specific indicator taxa (Ancylus fluviatilis, Glossosomatidae and Elmidae) in the fenced catchment following 9 years of exclusion highlight the long‐term ecological benefits of such mitigation practices. These findings highlight the importance of incentivised agri‐environment measures in reducing the negative impacts of cattle access to vulnerable aquatic ecosystems.
Deep core level hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy for catalyst characterization
Authors: Longo Filippo , Nikolic Marin , Borgschulte Andreas
Published: November 2023

Heterogeneous catalysts are the crucial element for many catalytic processes. In most of the cases, the pivotal structure consists of catalytic metals/alloy particles supported by oxides. Knowledge of the interaction between metal and oxide is central to understand the structure–performance relationship of such systems. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy provides access to the chemical–physical properties of metal and oxide interface as well as polarization effects. The results are usually derived from changes of the measured binding energies based on initial state analysis. We propose to extend the analysis using photoelectron as well as Auger transition to include final state effects (Wagner/Hohlneichner plots). This gives additional information on the specific chemical neighborhood of the excited atom. Three archetypal systems are investigated by hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) to introduce two approaches to this analysis for the most common support elements Al and Si.
Two Birds with One Stone: V4C3 MXene Synergistically Promoted VS2 Cathode and Zinc Anode for High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Mao Yunjie , Bai Jin , Lin Shuai , Wang Peiyao , Li Wanyun , Xiao Ke , Wang Siya , Zhu Xuebin , Zhao Bangchuan , Sun Yuping
Published: November 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) are considered to be a rising star in the large‐scale energy storage area because of their low cost and environmental friendliness properties. However, the limited electrochemical performance of the cathode and severe zinc dendrite of the anode severely hinder the practical application of AZIBs. Herein, a novel 3D interconnected VS2⊥V4C3Tx heterostructure material is prepared via one‐step solvothermal method. Morphological and structural characterizations show that VS2 nanosheets are uniformly and dispersedly distributed on the surface of the V4C3 MXene substrate, which can effectively suppress volume change of the VS2. Owing to the open heterostructure along with the high conductivity of V4C3 MXene, the VS2⊥V4C3Tx cathode shows a high specific capacity of 273.9 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 and an excellent rate capability of 143.2 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1. The V4C3 MXene can also effectively suppress zinc dendrite growth when used as protective layer for the Zn anode, making the V4C3Tx@Zn symmetric cell with a stable voltage profile for ≈1700 h. Benefitting from the synergistic modification effect of V4C3 MXene on both the cathode and anode, the VS2⊥V4C3Tx||V4C3Tx@Zn battery exhibits a long cycling lifespan of 5000 cycles with a capacity of 157.1 mAh g−1 at 5A g−1.
Spatial Heterogeneity and Strong Coupling of FeII/FeIII in an Individual Metal‐Organic Framework Nanoparticle for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zheng Yanting , Shen Xiaoxin , Lin Mingxiong , Zhu Mengyao , Yang Bixia , Yan Jiawei , Zhuang Zanyong , Yu Yan
Published: November 2023

The synthesis and characterization of an FeII/FeIII metal‐organic framework (MOF) nanocrystal with spatial heterogeneity that arises from the non‐uniform distribution of different valence states is disclosed. The FeII/FeIII‐Ni Prussian blue analog (PBA) delivers superior photocatalytic performance in the selective CO2 reduction reaction thanks to the strong FeII/FeIII coupling, with CO yield up to 12.27 mmol g−1 h−1 and 90.6% selectivity under visible‐light irradiation. Density functional theory calculation and experimental studies prove that the spatial heterogeneity of FeII/FeIII in the individual MOF nanocrystal not only directs and expedites the charge transfer within a catalyst particle but also creates the heterogeneity of catalytically‐active Ni sites for efficient CO2 photoreduction. The current findings add to a growing literature of materials with compositional heterogeneity and provide a reference for future research.
Enhancing Endosomal Escape and Gene Regulation Activity for Spherical Nucleic Acids
Authors: Park Jungsoo , Evangelopoulos Michael , Vasher Matthew Kuo , Kudruk Sergej , Ramani Namrata , Mayer Vinzenz , Solivan Alexander Carlos , Lee Andrew , Mirkin Chad Alexander
Published: November 2023

The therapeutic potential of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) is limited by their poor stability and low cellular uptake. When formulated as spherical nucleic acids (SNAs), siRNAs are resistant to nuclease degradation and enter cells without transfection agents with enhanced activity compared to their linear counterparts; however, the gene silencing activity of SNAs is limited by endosomal entrapment, a problem that impacts many siRNA‐based nanoparticle constructs. To increase cytosolic delivery, SNAs are formulated using calcium chloride (CaCl2) instead of the conventionally used sodium chloride (NaCl). The divalent calcium (Ca2+) ions remain associated with the multivalent SNA and have a higher affinity for SNAs compared to their linear counterparts. Importantly, confocal microscopy studies show a 22% decrease in the accumulation of CaCl2‐salted SNAs within the late endosomes compared to NaCl‐salted SNAs, indicating increased cytosolic delivery. Consistent with this finding, CaCl2‐salted SNAs comprised of siRNA and antisense DNA all exhibit enhanced gene silencing activity (up to 20‐fold), compared to NaCl‐salted SNAs regardless of sequence or cell line (U87‐MG and SK‐OV‐3) studied. Moreover, CaCl2‐salted SNA‐based forced intercalation probes show improved cytosolic mRNA detection.
Dereplication of natural cytotoxic products from Helichrysum oligocephalum using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time of flight‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Zanganeh Faezeh , Tayarani‐Najaran Zahra , Nesměrák Karel , Štícha Martin , Emami Seyed Ahmad , Akaberi Maryam
Published: November 2023

In an ongoing project on the Iranian Helichrysum Mill. species (Asteraceae), the phytochemical profiles of the extracts obtained from the flower and leaves of Helichrysum oligocephalum were investigated utilizing ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (MS) coupled with quadrupole time of flight. In addition, the cytotoxic activity of the extracts was evaluated against different cancerous cell lines by AlamarBlue assay. The apoptotic effects of the fractions were measured by propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry. HPLC‐based activity profiling was used to track the cytotoxic constituents. The MS and MSn data were analyzed by MZmine3. Clustering and visualization of the MS data were established by an online platform FreeClust. Concentration‐dependent cytotoxicity was observed for dichloromethane fractions. The active constituents were annotated as pyrone and phloroglucinol derivatives by comparing their MS and MSn profiles to an in‐house library, available databases, Dictionary of Natural Products, and literature. Additionally, plausible MS fragmentation pathways were suggested for the compounds; this can help in the dereplication process of similar compounds from the genus. In conclusion, this plant is rich in valuable phloroglucinol and pyrone compounds and can be used as a source of active phytochemicals. However, further phytochemical and pharmacological studies are necessary.
Der neue Aussichtsturm auf der Tromm
Authors: Pritzer Eberhard , Kutterer Mathias , Nicolay Thorsten
Published: November 2023

Der neue Aussichtsturm auf der Tromm im Odenwald hat sich seit seiner Eröffnung im Sommer 2022 zu einer viel besuchten Attraktion für Familien, Wandergruppen und Freizeitsportler entwickelt. Seine auffällige, Richtung Südwesten auskragende Gestalt geht auf die Anordnung der Treppenläufe zurück – diese liegen hintereinander und nicht übereinander, sodass eine steil aufsteigende Himmelsleiter entsteht. Die leichte, holzverkleidete Stahlkonstruktion ist mit Felsankern im gebirgsbildenden Odenwälder Granit verankert. An der Spitze trägt der Turm eine kreisrunde Aussichtsplattform und eine Antenne für Behördenfunk. Das dynamische Verhalten ist aufgrund der niedrigen Eigenfrequenzen bei geringer Bauwerksmasse von großer Bedeutung. Rechnerische Nachweise der dynamischen Gebrauchstauglichkeit (Wahrnehmbarkeit, Komfort) wurden auch experimentell überprüft.
Study on steel fiber synergistically reinforced cellular concrete explosion‐proof effect in an underwater near‐field environment
Authors: Cao Kelei , Qiu Qingming , Huang Hu , Wang Chao , Zhang Changhui , Zhang Yingying
Published: November 2023

Based on the static and dynamic test results of steel fiber synergistically reinforced cellular concrete (SFSRCC) under a complex stress state, the yield surface equation and strain rate effect are modified to construct a modified Holmquist–Johnson–Cook (HJC) model suitable for the dynamic compression behavior characteristics of SFSRCC, and the modified HJC model is verified. At the same time, a finite width SFSRCC protective layer–roller compacted concrete (RCC) slab–water–explosive multimedia coupling model is established to explore the influence of setting different thicknesses of the SFSRCC protective layer (0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 m) on the explosion‐proof performance and effect of the RCC slab structure. The results show that the heavy stress–strain curves and dynamic failure modes of the SFSRCC under different strain rates are in good agreement with the experimental results. The maximum errors of peak stress and peak strain between the simulation results and the experimental results are 1.04% and 6.6%, respectively, which confirms the validity of the HJC correction model and the accuracy of the simulation results. After setting different thicknesses of the protective layer, the RCC slab blast crater depth is reduced by 56.7%, 80%, and 93.3% compared with that at 0.18 m without a protective layer program, and almost no damage to the back explosion surface occurs. The failure volume ratio of the protected RCC slab structure gradually decreases from 38.53% to 3.24% with increasing protective layer thickness, and the protected RCC slab shows only slight damage after setting the protective layer. When the thickness of the protective layer is 0.3 m, the damage of the protected RCC slab structure is distributed in the surface area, which has little effect on the structural safety. These results show that the additional SFSRCC protective layer under the condition of underwater near‐field explosion can significantly reduce the damage degree of the slab structure and improve the explosion‐proof performance of the protected RCC slab structure. This research offers a theoretical reference for the explosion‐proof material selection and design of hydraulic structures and explosion‐proof application of SFSRCC under the action of underwater explosion impact loads.
Seasonal roost selection of wild turkeys at their northern range edge
Authors: Adey Elizabeth A. , Baici Jennifer E. , Bowman Jeff
Published: November 2023

Wild turkeys Meleagris gallopavo are diurnally active birds that spend the dark hours roosting in trees. We tested the hypothesis that multiple benefits exist for roost tree selection by wild turkeys, including thermoregulation, resource acquisition, and protection from predators. We compared 48 roost trees used by eastern wild turkeys M. g. silvestris in Ontario, Canada to 48 non‐roost trees sampled contemporaneously during 2017–2019 to determine roost site selection between seasons. Mean (± SE) roost tree height (21.4 ± 0.8 m) was taller than non‐roost trees (18.2 ± 0.8 m), and roost trees were also larger in diameter at breast height (58.1 ± 5.5 vs 38.7 ± 3.1 cm). Using ibuttons to collect microclimate temperatures at the tree, we found that mean temperature (± SE) of a deciduous roost (14.5 ± 0.1°C) was higher than temperature at either a coniferous roost (13.9 ± 0.1°C) or ambient temperature (13.2 ± 0.1°C) during the summer months. In winter however, we did not find any relationship between temperature and tree type. Roosts were closer to buildings (150.8 ± 26.0 m) in the winter compared to summer and year‐round roosts, and winter roosts were also farther away from crops (395.2 ± 63.7 m) compared to roost sites used year‐round. Summer roosts were closer to roads (143 ± 36.3 m) than the roosts in the winter and roosts used year‐round. Our data suggest that thermoregulation is not the driving force behind roost selection; instead, predator avoidance appears to play the most important role, with some weaker evidence in support of proximity to resources.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon radical anions stabilized by a sodium diglyme cation complex
Authors: Eichstaedt Natalie , Pietsch Ingmar , Friedrich Daniel , Breu Josef
Published: November 2023

Reduction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by sodium in the presence of the chelating ether diglyme in THF resulted in the formation of radical carbanion salts. The crystal structure of a Na(diglyme)2pyrenide, a new member in this material class, was solved from single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data. The green compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with unit cell parameters of a=8.9908(4) Å, b=16.6367(8) Å, c=19.1723(7) Å, β=94.734(2)°, V=2857.9(2) Å3, and Z=4 (T=20 °C).
Grey Galaxies’ as an endpoint of the Kerr-AdS superradiant instability
Authors: Kim Seok , Kundu Suman , Lee Eunwoo , Lee Jaeha , Minwalla Shiraz , Patel Chintan
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Kerr-AdSd+1 black holes for d ≥ 3 suffer from classical superradiant instabilities over a range of masses above extremality. We conjecture that these instabilities settle down into Grey Galaxies (GGs) — a new class of coarse-grained solutions to Einstein’s equations which we construct in d = 3. Grey Galaxies are made up of a black hole with critical angular velocity ω = 1 in the ‘centre’ of AdS, surrounded by a large flat disk of thermal bulk gas that revolves around the centre of AdS at the speed of light. The gas carries a finite fraction of the total energy, as its parametrically low energy density and large radius are inversely related. GGs exist at masses that extend all the way down to the unitarity bound. Their thermodynamics is that of a weakly interacting mix of Kerr-AdS black holes and the bulk gas. Their boundary stress tensor is the sum of a smooth ‘black hole’ contribution and a peaked gas contribution that is delta function localized around the equator of the boundary sphere in the large N limit. We also construct another class of solutions with the same charges; ‘Revolving Black Holes (RBHs)’. RBHs are macroscopically charged SO(d, 2) descendants of AdS-Kerr solutions, and consist of ω = 1 black holes revolving around the centre of AdS at a fixed radial location but in a quantum wave function in the angular directions. RBH solutions are marginally entropically subdominant to GG solutions and do not constitute the endpoint of the superradiant instability. Nonetheless, we argue that supersymmetric versions of these solutions have interesting implications for the spectrum of supersymmetric states in, e.g. $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 Yang-Mills theory.
New energy spectra in neutrino and photon detectors to reveal hidden dark matter signals
Authors: Beenakker Wim , Caron Sascha , Kip Jochem , de Austri Roberto Ruiz , Zhang Zhongyi
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Neutral particles capable of travelling cosmic distances from a source to detectors on Earth are limited to photons and neutrinos. Examination of the Dark Matter annihilation/decay spectra for these particles reveals the presence of continuum spectra (e.g. due to fragmentation and W or Z decay) and peaks (due to direct annihilations/decays). However, when one explores extensions of the Standard Model (BSM), unexplored spectra emerge that differ significantly from those of the Standard Model (SM) for both neutrinos and photons. In this paper, we argue for the inclusion of important spectra that include peaks as well as previously largely unexplored entities such as boxes and combinations of box, peak and continuum decay spectra.
Was ist gesichert in der Therapie des systemischen Lupus erythematodes?
Authors: Gödecke Vega , Witte Torsten
Published: November 2023

Der systemische Lupus erythematodes (SLE) ist eine Autoimmunerkrankung mit variabler klinischer Präsentation und Organbeteiligung. Eine frühzeitige Diagnose sowie das zügige Erreichen einer niedrigen Krankheitsaktivität oder Remission reduzieren Organschäden und verbessern die Prognose. Die Behandlungsansätze lassen sich unterteilen in sogenannte Basismaßnahmen und die immunsuppressiven Therapien. Die medikamentösen Therapieoptionen wurden in den letzten Jahren grundlegend erweitert, dabei sind neue Wirkstoffklassen für die Therapie des SLE hinzugekommen. Dies schließt Biologikatherapien und zugelassene Therapieoptionen für die Behandlung der Lupusnephritis ein. Aufgrund verbesserter Behandlungsmöglichkeiten kann unter Einsparung von Glukokortikoiden häufig eine gute Krankheitskontrolle erreicht werden, dabei kommen zunehmend Kombinationstherapien zum Einsatz. Von großer Wichtigkeit ist der konsequente Einsatz der Basismaßnahmen, hierzu zählen der Einsatz von Hydroxychloroquin, die Optimierung der kardiovaskulären Risikofaktoren, ein Schutz vor ultravioletter Strahlung, knochenprotektive Maßnahmen und die Durchführung der Schutzimpfungen. In der Behandlung der Lupusnephritis spielen konservative Therapiemaßnahmen zur Nephroprotektion eine entscheidende Rolle für die renale Prognose. Hinsichtlich einer Verbesserung der Lebensqualität haben auch nichtpharmakologische Therapieoptionen wie die Bewegungstherapie eine große Bedeutung.
Meniscal allograft transplantation improves patient‐reported outcomes in both minimal and moderate knee osteoarthritis at 1 and 2 years postoperatively
Authors: Aavikko Anni , Bister Ville , Reito Aleksi , Lindahl Jan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Severe cartilage damage and advanced knee osteoarthritis (OA) might be associated with poor outcomes of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT). The purpose of this prospective follow‐up study was to explore MAT survivorship and patient satisfaction among young patients with symptomatic meniscal deficiency and radiological OA of different Kellgren–Lawrence (K–L) grades.

Methods

Thirty‐five consecutive MAT patients were prospectively followed up for 2 years. The lateral meniscus was replaced in 29 patients and the medial meniscus in 6 patients. Outcomes were assessed using the KOOS4 composite score, KOOS subscales, Lysholm knee score, and OA K–L grade progression from weight‐bearing knee radiographs. For the outcome analysis, patients were categorized into two groups: 19 in Group A (K–L classification 0–1) and 16 in Group B (K–L classification 2).

Results

In terms of KOOS4 and Lysholm scores, the patients showed a clinically significant improvement from baseline to the 1‐year follow‐up (22.2 points, 95% CI 16.6–27.8 for KOOS4 and 16.8 points, 95% CI 8.9–24.6 for Lysholm), and the improvement remained at 2 years (20.6 points, 95% CI 13.2–28.1 for KOOS4 and 21.5, 95% CI 12.5–30.7 for Lysholm). At the 6‐month follow‐up, this improvement was not yet observed. Minor between‐group differences were observed in the KOOS4 and Lysholm scores for the K–L 0–1 and K–L 2 OA groups, but the estimates were imprecise with wide confidence intervals. A clinically relevant difference between these two study groups could not be found at any timepoint. The reoperation rate was higher in the K–L 2 group than in the K–L 0–1 group (31% vs. 11%).

Conclusions

MAT yielded improved patient‐reported outcomes and subjective satisfaction at 1 and 2 years postoperatively. The differences from baseline exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) at all timepoints. The severity of cartilage damage and knee OA in terms of the K–L grade at the time of surgery did not affect the KOOS and Lysholm scores after the MAT procedure. Knee OA progression in terms of K–L grade worsening was not observed in any patients.

Level of evidence

III.
Error introduced by direct 3D printing of compression samples of PLA made by FDM process
Authors: Scipioni Silvia Ilaria , Lambiase Francesco
Published: November 2023

This study delves into the crucial aspect of sample preparation methodology and its profound impact on characterizing the physical and mechanical properties of components fabricated through the material extrusion (fused deposition modeling—FDM) process. Two distinct manufacturing approaches, direct printing and sample extraction from a plate, were employed to produce samples. To assess the influence of artifacts introduced by direct printing, compression tests were conducted under various loading directions. The investigation extends to density measurements and comprehensive morphological analysis, which plays a pivotal role in understanding the ramifications of different manufacturing approaches and principal sample directions. Notably, the research findings reveal that direct printing inflicts significant artifacts within the samples, fundamentally altering the properties obtained during testing. These artifacts substantially affect density measurements and mechanical behavior, indicating a potential avenue for future research and applications. Besides, the printing direction also significantly influenced the extent of the artifacts and differences in mechanical behavior. The maximum difference in density measurement was − 5.3%, while Young’s modulus reached − 29%, and yield strength ranged between − 12% (for vertical samples) and + 18% for horizontal samples with filaments arranged along the loading path. These findings underscore the necessity for meticulously crafted quality assessment protocols when utilizing functional parts manufactured through the material extrusion process. Such protocols should also consider the influence of sample dimensions on the mechanical characteristics of the components.
Rechtsmedizin in der Populärkultur
Authors: Schwarz Clara-Sophie , Germerott Tanja , Buwen Anne , Lustig Magdalena , Stolper Katja , Toth Teresa , Uhlig Mirko
Published: November 2023

Hintergrund

Das mediale Interesse an ihrer Arbeit kann sich im beruflichen Alltag von Rechtsmediziner:innen niederschlagen und die zukünftige Entwicklung des Faches beeinflussen. Um adäquat reagieren zu können, bedarf es einer differenzierten Einordnung der medialen Inszenierungen.

Methoden

Für eine erste Annäherung wurde eine Kooperation zwischen Rechtsmedizin und Kulturanthropologie initiiert und ein gemeinsames Projektseminar durchgeführt. Die Analyse der ausgewählten populärkulturellen Fallbeispiele (Podcasts, TV-Serien, Sachbücher) basierte auf den hermeneutischen Verfahren der historisch-kritischen Filmanalyse und Medienanalyse. Das Ziel des Projektes bestand darin, spezifische Schlüsselnarrative, die zur rezenten öffentlichen Inszenierung der Rechtsmedizin genutzt werden, herauszuarbeiten.

Ergebnisse

Ausgehend vom Konzept des „forensischen Marktes“ als profitables und Aufmerksamkeit generierendes Forum zur Darstellung der Rechtsmedizin, werden Fallbeispiele präsentiert. Sachbücher, an denen Rechtsmediziner beteiligt sind, nehmen eine ambivalente Position ein, da sie einerseits die Spektakularisierung des Sujets befördern und Erwartungshaltungen bedienen, andererseits versuchen, Rechtsmedizin differenziert darzustellen und auch politische Interventionen fordern. Bei den untersuchten TV-Produktionen ist auffällig, wie die Darstellungen durch ein naturalistisches Weltbild geprägt sind, nach dem nur die vermeintlich objektiven Methoden der Forensik befriedigende Antworten bieten. Durch die Heroisierung der Rechtsmedizin als Anwältin der Verstorbenen wird ein dramaturgisches Bedürfnis befriedigt, aber ihre Kompetenz im Ermittlungs- und Strafverfahren überzogen dargestellt.

Schlussfolgerungen

Bereits diese erste Sondierung konnte die Vielschichtigkeit und Komplexität des Untersuchungsfeldes zeigen, das eine interdisziplinäre Forschung verlangt. Neben den drängenden ethischen Fragen ergeben sich weitere zur Inszenierung der Rechtsmedizin und ihren Folgen für das Fach selbst, die in der aktuellen Diskussion produktiv aufgegriffen werden können.
Enhancement of peripheral fatty acyl ethanolamide signaling prevents stress-induced social avoidance and anxiety-like behaviors in male rats
Authors: Carnevali Luca , Barbetti Margherita , Fotio Yannick , Ferlenghi Francesca , Vacondio Federica , Mor Marco , Piomelli Daniele , Sgoifo Andrea
Published: November 2023

Rationale

Exposure to traumatic events can lead to alterations in social and anxiety-related behaviors. Emerging evidence suggests that peripheral host-defense processes are implicated in the expression of stress-induced behavioral responses and may be targeted to mitigate the negative sequalae of stress exposure.

Objectives

In this study, we used the peripherally restricted FAAH inhibitor URB937 to investigate the effects of the fatty acyl ethanolamide (FAE) family of lipid mediators – which include the endocannabinoid anandamide and the endogenous PPAR-α agonists, oleoylethanolamide and palmitoylethanolamide – on behavioral and peripheral biochemical responses to two ethologically distinct rat models of stress.

Methods

Male adult rats were exposed to acute social defeat, a model of psychological stress (Experiment 1), or to the predator odor 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline (TMT), a test of innate predator-evoked fear (Experiment 2), and subsequently treated with URB937 (1 or 3 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) or vehicle. Behavioral analyses were conducted 24 h (Experiment 1) or 7 days (Experiment 2) after exposure.

Results

URB937 administration prevented the emergence of both social avoidance behavior after social defeat stress and anxiety-related behaviors after TMT exposure. Further, URB937 administration blocked social defeat-induced transient increase in plasma concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the elevation in plasma corticosterone levels observed 24 h after social defeat

Conclusions

Enhancement of peripheral FAAH-regulated lipid signaling prevents the emergence of stress-induced social avoidance and anxiety-like behaviors in male rats through mechanisms that may involve an attenuation of peripheral cytokine release induced by stress exposure.
Stability, Vertex Stability, and Unfrozenness for Special Graph Classes
Authors: Gurski Frank , Rothe Jörg , Weishaupt Robin
Published: November 2023

Frei et al. (J. Comput. Syst. Sci. 123, 103–121, 2022) show that the stability, vertex stability, and unfrozenness problems with respect to certain graph parameters are complete for $$\varvec{\Theta _{2}^{\textrm{P}}}$$

Θ

2

P

, the class of problems solvable in polynomial time by parallel access to an NP oracle. They studied the common graph parameters $$\varvec{\alpha }$$

α

(the independence number), $$\varvec{\beta }$$

β

(the vertex cover number), $$\varvec{\omega }$$

ω

(the clique number), and $$\varvec{\chi }$$

χ

(the chromatic number). We complement their approach by providing polynomial-time algorithms solving these problems for special graph classes, namely for graphs with bounded tree-width or bounded clique-width. In order to improve these general time bounds even further, we then focus on trees, forests, bipartite graphs, and co-graphs.
A phase-II study based on dose adjustment according to UGT1A1 polymorphism: is irinotecan underdosed in first-line FOLFIRI regimen for mCRC?
Authors: Ginzac Angeline , Thivat Emilie , Petorin Caroline , Richard Damien , Herviou Pauline , Molnar Ioana , Devaud Hervé , Creveaux Isabelle , Ferrer Florent , Authier Nicolas , Jary Marine , Pezet Denis , Durando Xavier
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Irinotecan has considerable importance in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). UDP-glucoronyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 is responsible for the inactivation of SN-38, a metabolite of irinotecan. Depending on UGT1A1 polymorphism, the activity of the UGT enzyme can be reduced leading to more frequent occurrence of adverse events related to irinotecan. The present study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of different doses of irinotecan adjusted according to UGT1A1 polymorphism.

Methods

Thirty-four patients treated with FOLFIRI as first-line treatment for mCRC were included in this study. The irinotecan dosage was adapted on the basis of UGT1A1 polymorphisms: *1/*1 (370 mg/m2); *1/*28 (310 mg/m2), and *28/*28 (180 mg/m2). The incidence of grades 3 and 4 toxicities (neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and diarrhoea) was recorded. Response was assessed according to the RECIST 1.1 criteria.

Results

On the basis of UGT1A1 genotyping, 20 patients were *1/*1 (58.8%), 12 were *1/*28 (35.3%) and 2 were *28/*28 (5.9%). Seven patients experienced at least one severe toxicity, i.e., 21% of the population, amounting to eleven adverse events. Concerning the response rate, 15 patients (44%) had partial or complete response.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that mCRC patients treated with FOLFIRI can tolerate a higher dose of irinotecan than the standard dose, i.e., > 180 mg/m2, on the basis of their UGT1A1 genotype, without increased toxicities.

Trial registration

NCT01963182 (registered on 16/10/2013, Clermont-Ferrand, France).
Accurate Computations up to Breakdown of Quasi-Periodic Attractors in the Dissipative Spin–Orbit Problem
Authors: Calleja Renato , Celletti Alessandra , Gimeno Joan , de la Llave Rafael
Published: November 2023

We consider a Celestial Mechanics model: the spin–orbit problem with a dissipative tidal torque, which is a singular perturbation of a conservative system. The goal of this paper is to show that it is possible to maintain the accuracy and reliability of the computation of quasi-periodic attractors for parameter values extremely close to the breakdown and, therefore, it is possible to obtain information on the breakdown mechanism of these quasi-periodic attractors. The method uses at the same time numerical and rigorous improvements to provide (i) a very accurate computation of the time-1 map of the spin–orbit problem (which reduces the dimensionality of the problem); (ii) a very efficient KAM method for maps which computes the attractor and its tangent spaces (by quadratically convergent, low storage requirements, and low operation count); (iii) explicit algorithms backed by a rigorous a posteriori KAM theorem, which establishes that if the algorithm is successful and produces a small residual, then there is a true solution nearby; and (iv) guaranteed algorithms to reach arbitrarily close to the border of existence as long as there are enough computer resources. As a by-product of the accuracy that we maintain till breakdown, we study several scale-invariant observables of the tori used in the renormalization group of infinite-dimensional spaces. In contrast with previously studied simple models, the behavior at breakdown of the spin–orbit problem does not satisfy standard scaling relations which implies that the spin–orbit problem is not described by a hyperbolic fixed point of the renormalization operator.
In vivo observation of lipid droplets in coral calcifying cells: fat stores to fuel the reef-building process?
Authors: Chatin Benoît , Venn Alexander A. , Tambutté Éric , Tambutté Sylvie
Published: November 2023

The calcifying cells of corals are responsible for skeleton formation, a process that is the basis for reef building. Their cell biology is therefore of primary interest, but current knowledge is limited because direct in vivo investigation of this cell type is challenging. Studies at the growing edge of laterally extending coral colonies allow for direct observations of actively calcifying cells in living samples. In the current study, we used this approach to study lipid droplets, which are considered storage organelles that fuel cells for physiological processes. Using the fluorescent lipid probe Nile Red and in vivo confocal microscopy, we observed lipid droplets in calcifying cells of the coral Stylophora pistillata and we suggest that they play a key role in coral calcification.
Are autopsies on minors a taboo?: The experience of Milan in a 19-year retrospective study
Authors: Tambuzzi Stefano , Crudele Graziano , Maggioni Lidia , Collini Federica , Tunesi Sara , Decarli Adriano , Russo Antonio Giampiero , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: November 2023

Forensic autopsy is an important tool for the proper management of non-natural deaths in minors. However, it seems that autopsy in minors is a practice which may not be performed routinely. In this framework, we conducted a study analyzing autopsies of minors (under 18 years of age in Italy) performed at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Milan in the period 2001–2019. For the period 2015–2019, we extrapolated all deaths due to non-natural causes in minors to investigate how many and which of these deaths were not subjected to forensic autopsy. Of the total, 344 minors (235 males and 109 females) underwent autopsies, with an overall downward trend of about 80% since 2004. Most autopsies occurred between the ages of 0 and 1 year, and the fewest between the ages of 5 and 9 years. The place of death was home in most cases, and accidental death was most common, followed by natural death, suicide, and homicide, with prevalence varying by age group. Blunt force trauma predominated among accidental death in all age groups, followed by asphyxia. Similar findings were observed for suicides, although there was a more differentiated pattern for suicides between the ages of 15 and 17 years. Among homicides, blunt force trauma, asphyxia, and gunshot wounds were fairly evenly distributed across all age groups. Between 2015 and 2019, a total of 86 minors died of a non-natural cause, and a forensic autopsy was performed in only 33 cases (38%). Our data shows that fewer and fewer autopsies are being performed over the last years, which indicates a dangerous lack of forensic investigation of children and adolescent deaths, with enormous implications for prevention of child abuse.