bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Senescence markers in subcutaneous preadipocytes differ in childhood‐ versus adult‐onset obesity before and after weight loss
Authors: Murphy Jessica , Tam Bjorn T. , Kirkland James L. , Tchkonia Tamara , Giorgadze Nino , Pirtskhalava Tamar , Tsoukas Michael A. , Morais José A. , Santosa Sylvia
Published: May 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of age of obesity onset on senescence‐related markers in abdominal (AB) and femoral (FEM) subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) before and after moderate (~10%) weight loss.

Methods

AB and FEM SAT were collected from human females with childhood‐onset obesity (CO) or adult‐onset obesity (AO) before and after diet‐ and exercise‐induced weight loss. Immunofluorescence analysis of γH2AX/RAD51 (DNA damage/repair markers) and p53/p21 (senescence markers) was conducted in cultured preadipocytes, and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) activity was measured in SAT.

Results

CO had proportionately more AB and FEM preadipocytes with DNA damage (γH2AX+) and senescence markers (p53+ and/or p21+) than AO at baseline. The proportion of γH2AX+ FEM preadipocytes declined with weight loss in CO and was similar between groups after weight loss. The number of γH2AX foci in γH2AX+ preadipocytes decreased similarly between groups and regions with weight loss in parallel with an increase in RAD51. The proportion of p53+ and p21+ preadipocytes and SA‐β‐gal+ cells in SAT did not change with weight loss, but the total p21 intensity in p53+/p21+ FEM preadipocytes declined in AO.

Conclusions

These results provide preliminary evidence that females with CO have an accelerated preadipocyte aging state that improves with weight loss in terms of DNA damage but not senescence.
Synthesis and Properties of Twisted and Helical Azulene Oligomers and Azulene‐Based Polycyclic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Tsuchiya Takahiro , Higashibeppu Makoto , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: May 2023

The construction of 1,2‐position‐connected azulene oligomers was achieved. In the crystal packing structure of the terazulene, two molecules of (Ra)‐ and (Sa)‐configurations formed a pair. Variable temperature NMR measurements and theoretical calculations of the quaterazulene suggest that the helical and syn‐type structure with terminal azulene overlap is more stable. Two kinds of fused terazulenes (1,2′′‐closed and 1,8′′‐closed) were also synthesized by intramolecular Pd‐catalyzed C−H/C−Br arylation of the terazulene moieties. X‐ray structure analysis of 1,2′′‐closed terazulene revealed a planar structure, while an analysis of 1,8′′‐closed terazulene performed on a C60 co‐crystal revealed a curved structure forming a 1 : 1 complex covering the co‐crystal. Nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) calculations carried out for the central seven‐membered ring of 1,8′′‐closed terazulene showed a positive value, suggesting anti‐aromatic properties.
Collaborative supernumerary nasal tooth extraction by nasal and intraoral approaches
Authors: Sukegawa Shintaro , Samukawa Yasushi , Akiyama Kosuke , Nakai Yasuhiro , Miyazaki Ryo , Miyake Minoru
Published: May 2023

Background

The purpose of this report was to describe an effective technique by which a fractured intranasal supernumerary tooth was pushed from the oral cavity side toward the nasal cavity.

Case presentation

A 6‐year‐old female with two maxillary supernumerary median impacted teeth, including an intranasal tooth, performed teeth extraction. The surgical procedure was a collaboration operation of oral and maxillofacial surgery and otorhinolaryngology. By pushing the fractured tooth in the nasal cavity from the oral cavity toward the nasal cavity, the remaining root in her maxilla could be easily removed from the nasal cavity with an endoscope.

Conclusion

Collaboration surgery of the intraoral and nasal approaches could achieve minimally invasive surgery for the removal of the remaining fractured root of intranasal teeth.
Child and family perceptions of satisfaction with neutropenia management in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Szymczak Julia E. , Getz Kelly D. , Madding Rachel , Shuster Sydney , Aftandilian Catherine , Arnold Staci D. , Collier Anderson B. , Gramatges Maria M. , Henry Meret , Hijiya Nobuko , Mian Amir , Raetz Elizabeth , Fisher Brian T. , Aplenc Richard
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Chemotherapy for pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is very intensive and many, but not all centers, require extended hospitalization until neutrophil recovery. Child and family preferences, beliefs, and experiences around hospitalization have not been systematically assessed.

Patients and methods

We recruited children with AML and their parents from nine pediatric cancer centers across the United States for a qualitative interview about their experiences of neutropenia management. Interviews were analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach.

Results

Of 116 eligible individuals, 86 (74.1%) agreed to participate. Interviews were conducted with 32 children and 54 parents from 57 families. Of these 57 families, 39 were cared for as inpatients and 18 were managed as outpatients. A very high proportion of respondents in both groups reported satisfaction with the discharge management strategy recommended by the treating institution: 86% (57 individuals) of respondents who experienced inpatient management and 85% (17 individuals) of respondents who experienced outpatient management expressed satisfaction. Respondent perceptions associated with satisfaction related to safety (access to emergency interventions, infection risk, close monitoring) and psychosocial concerns (family separation, low morale, social support). Respondents believed it could not be assumed that all children would have the same experience due to varied life circumstances.

Conclusion

Children with AML and their parents express a very high degree of satisfaction with the discharge strategy recommended by their treating institution. Respondents saw a nuanced tradeoff between patient safety and psychosocial concerns that was mediated by a child's life circumstances.
Sulfur‐based functional groups in agrochemistry
Authors: Jeanguenat Andre , Lamberth Clemens
Published: May 2023

The element sulfur has an outstanding role in the crop protection chemistry because it is used in its elemental form as a multisite fungicide, but is also part of agrochemicals in the form of aromatic or aliphatic sulfur‐containing rings or sulfur‐based functional groups. This review gives an exhaustive overview over the latter category. Several fundamental agrochemical compound classes are named after a sulfur‐based functionality, such as the dithiocarbamate fungicides and sulfonylurea herbicides. Altogether, 16 different sulfur‐based functional groups are presented with their typical synthesis approaches and most important representatives in crop protection. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of a guardian plant system to suppress Frankliniella occidentalis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in greenhouse ornamentals
Authors: Sullivan Cheryl Frank , Davari Agrin , Kim Jae Su , Parker Bruce L. , Skinner Margaret
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Western flower thrips (WFT), Franklinella occidentalis (Pergande), is an economically damaging pest of greenhouse ornamentals. A ‘guardian plant system’ (GPS) that targeted WFT was evaluated under controlled and commercial greenhouse conditions. This system used mycotized millet grains with the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo‐Crivelli) Vuillemin applied to soil of potted marigolds, Tagetes patula (L.), combined with the foliar‐dwelling predatory mite Neoseiulus (=Amblyseius) cucumeris (Oudemans) in slow‐release sachets under controlled greenhouse conditions, and with the addition of a pheromone lure under commercial settings.

RESULTS

Significantly fewer WFT and less foliar damage on GPS was observed over the 10 and 12 weeks experimental periods compared to the untreated controls. Predatory mites were maintained up to 10 weeks with one release under controlled greenhouse conditions and 12 weeks with two releases in commercial greenhouses. In commercial greenhouses, greater numbers of WFT were found on marigolds than on crop plants within 1 m of the system. Fungal granules persisted for 12 weeks up to 2.5 × 105 CFU g−1 in the GPS soil.

CONCLUSION

The use of biological control agents to suppress WFT within a GPS could be a useful IPM strategy for greenhouse production. The marigold GPS attracted WFT which were suppressed primarily through predation by foliar‐dwelling predatory mites and to a lesser extent, infection from conidia produced by the granular fungal formulation in the soil. Further investigations into system deployment and fungal granular application rates and new fungal formulations are suggested to improve system efficacy. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Spatial and temporal characteristics of extreme rainfall: Added benefits with sub‐kilometre‐resolution climate model simulations?
Authors: Thomassen Emma D. , Arnbjerg‐Nielsen Karsten , Sørup Hjalte J. D. , Langen Peter L. , Olsson Jonas , Pedersen Rasmus A. , Christensen Ole B.
Published: May 2023

Local, short‐duration extreme precipitation events can cause floodings and have massive economic consequences. The climate change impact on such events is of great interest, but due to the small spatio‐temporal scales involved, these are challenging to properly represent in climate models. This study analyses a new sub‐kilometre (750 m) HARMONIE‐Climate model simulation driven by ERA5 reanalysis data. Three convection‐permitting models at 750 m, 3 and 5 km grid distance are analysed and compared with driving reanalyses, intermediate model simulations and a dense rain gauge network. The representation of convective events is analysed by a range of metrics categorised as spatial, temporal and event‐focused. Precipitation events are analysed at both hourly and sub‐hourly scales and a clear difference between model performance on these scales is found. Overall, we find a better performance for HCLIM750m for most metrics, yet the added benefits of the computationally intensive sub‐kilometre scale simulation seems limited compared to the convection‐permitting models at 3 and 5 km.
Role of β2‐glycoprotein I in the pathogenesis of the antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Li Jing , Zhu Xiangrui , Feng Juan
Published: May 2023

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is typically characterized by increased levels of three classes of antiphospholipid antibodies, namely lupus anticoagulant, anti‐β2‐glycoprotein I (anti‐β2GPI), and anticardiolipin antibodies. β2‐Glycoprotein (β2GPI) is a phospholipid‐binding protein composed of five domains (DI–V) and a major antigen in APS. β2GPI is expressed on the surfaces of several cell types, including endothelial cells, monocytes, trophoblast cells, and platelets. Its binding to the anti‐β2GPI antibody triggers downstream signaling events and ultimately exerts a variety of cellular effects. β2GPI modulates hemostasis and the complement system, as well as playing an important role in APS‐associated vascular injury. Therefore, studying β2GPI will help elucidate the pathogenesis of APS and improve the treatment of patients with this condition. This review will mainly focus on the structure and function of β2GPI, as well as its implication in the pathogenesis of APS.
Metagenomic next‐generation sequencing for pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in patients with connective tissue disease
Authors: Liu Jianwen , Wu Chenmin , He Juanjuan , Wu Yanfang , Gao Fei , Chen Zhihan
Published: May 2023

Background

Accurate diagnosis of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is challenging, and the delayed diagnosis of PJP is associated with high mortality in patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). Metagenomic next‐generation sequencing (mNGS) technology facilitates etiological diagnosis of various infectious diseases, with promising application in diagnosing PJP. This study aimed to investigate the value of mNGS using bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) for diagnosing PJP infection.

Methods

Data from 55 patients with CTD and suspected pulmonary infection was retrospectively collected and analysed. A PJP group and non‐PJP group were formed. The clinical manifestations, laboratory test results, treatment methods, and outcomes were summarized. BALF mNGS results were compared with traditional pathogen tests (TPT) and serum 1,3‐beta‐D‐glucan (BDG) testing.

Results

The mean age of PJP patients was 54 years, and 59% (10/17) of the patients were female. A significant difference was found between the average daily dose of prednisone administered to the PJP group and non‐PJP group (25 mg vs. 16 mg, P < 0.001). The PJP group had a significantly higher incidence of dyspnoea (88% [15/17] vs. 16% [6/38], P < 0.001) and elevated serum BDG level (167.73 vs. 30.67 pg/mL, P < 0.001). BALF mNGS was more sensitive than both TPT (100% [95% confidence interval {CI}: 77.1%–100%] vs. 11.8% [95% CI: 2.1%–37.7%], P < 0.001) and serum BDG (100% [95% CI: 77.1%–100%] vs. 85.7% [95% CI: 42%–99.2%], P < 0.001). BALF mNGS was more specific than serum BDG (89.5% [95% CI: 74.3%–96.6%] vs. 46.7% [95% CI: 22.3%–72.6%], P = 0.493). Co‐infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) was more common in the PJP patients than in the non‐PJP patients (59% [10/17] vs. 11% [4/38], respectively, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

BALF mNGS technology is highly effective for diagnosing PJP in patients with CTD and identifying co‐infections.
Effect of the Three Gorges Reservoir on vertical distribution of suspended sediment concentration and estimation accuracy of depth‐average concentration in downstream reaches
Authors: Wang Yule , Chen Li , Yuan Jin , Li Yuchen , Yang Chengguang , He Xiaohua
Published: May 2023

The sediment regime in the middle Yangtze River has been significantly changed from quasi‐equilibrium to nonequilibrium since the impoundment of the Three Georges Reservoir (TGR). To understand the effects of the TGR on vertical distribution of suspended sediment concentration (SSC) and estimation accuracy of mean concentration, vertical sediment concentration and flow velocity data at the Shashi and Jianli hydrological stations in the reach before and after the impoundment were collected. Comparisons and analysis of vertical profiles of SSC before and after the TGR impoundment show that after the impoundment of the TGR, due to the coarsening of sediment particle size, the reduction in sediment load, and the significant decrease in sediment saturation, the vertical distribution of SSC in the downstream reaches became more uneven under medium and low water flows, which was reflected in the vertical gradient and the fluctuation degree of SSC significantly increased. In addition, the depth‐average sediment concentrations were calculated by the selected‐point method and the mean values calculated by the “multi‐point method” were regarded as the “true mean” to evaluate the accuracy of the mean value calculated by the “few‐point method.” It was found that the relative errors for the selected‐point method were mainly positive before impoundment but mainly negative after impoundment. Additionally, the correction factors of one‐point, two‐point, and three‐point methods and the position of the near‐bed substituted point for the five‐point method were given to reduce the error when the point measurements were used to calculate the depth‐average sediment concentration in the downstream reaches.
Insight into Accelerating Polysulfides Redox Kinetics by BN@MXene Heterostructure for Li–S Batteries
Authors: Song Yaochen , Tang Pengkai , Wang Yi , Bi Linnan , Liang Qi , Yao Yilin , Qiu Yuhong , He Liang , Xie Qingyu , Dong Peng , Zhang Yingjie , Yao Yao , Liao Jiaxuan , Wang Sizhe
Published: May 2023

Sluggish redox kinetics and shuttle effect of polysulfides hinder the extensive application of the lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). Herein a functional heterostructure of boron nitride (BN) and MXene with an alternately layered structure (BN@MXene) is designed as separator interlayer. High efficiency Li+ transmission, uniform lithium deposition, strong adsorption, and efficient catalytic conversion activities of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) realized by this heterostructure are confirmed by experiments and theoretical calculations. The alternately layered structure provides unblocked ion transmission channels and abundant active sites to accelerate the polysulfides redox kinetics with reduced energy barriers of oxidation and reduction reactions. As a result, the LSBs deliver an initial discharge capacity of up to 1273.9 mAh g−1 at 0.2 °C and a low decay of 0.058% per cycle in long‐term cycling up to 700 cycles at 1 °C. This work provides an effective designing strategy to accelerate the polysulfides redox kinetics for advanced Li–S electrochemical system.
A Novel Anthracene Derivative Used as Cathode Interlayer for Efficient Inverted Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Lu Ke , Chen Hong , Cai Yu , Liu Xingchen , He Yaowu , Yan Chaoyi , Yan Feng , Hu Zhao , Meng Hong
Published: May 2023

Metal halide hybrid perovskite solar cells have recently emerged as a highly cost‐effective photovoltaic technology. The cathode interlayer plays a critical role in aligning energy levels and promoting charge extraction in inverted perovskite solar cells. Herein, a novel multinitrogen derivative interlayer, Anth‐hpp2, is designed and synthesized consisting of 1,1'‐(4‐(9,10‐di(naphthalen‐2‐yl)anthracen‐2‐yl)pyridine‐2,6‐diyl)bis(1,3,4,6,7,8‐hexahydro‐2H‐pyrimido[1,2‐a] pyrimidine), between the PCBM and top Ag electrode. The superbase group in Anth‐hpp2 effectively contacts the silver electrode, reducing the work function of Ag. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency of the Anth‐hpp2‐based device improved from 16.05% to 20.37%, along with enhancements in short‐circuit current and fill factor. The stabilities of perovskite solar cells are measured with Anth‐hpp2 under N2 storage, and the device efficiency with Anth‐hpp2 decayed by only 5% after fabrication for approximately 2500 h, which is five times that of the control device. This study provides original insights into designing new cathode interlayer materials.
FLAME GPU 2: A framework for flexible and performant agent based simulation on GPUs
Authors: Richmond Paul , Chisholm Robert , Heywood Peter , Chimeh Mozhgan Kabiri , Leach Matthew
Published: May 2023

Agent based modelling (ABM) offers a powerful abstraction for scientific study in a broad range of domains. The use of agent based simulators encourages good software engineering design such as separation of concerns, that is, the uncoupling of the model description from its implementation detail. A major limitation in current approaches to ABM simulation is that of the trade off between simulator flexibility and performance. It is common that highly optimised simulations, such as those which target graphics processing units (GPU) hardware, are implemented as standalone software. This work presents a software framework (FLAME GPU 2) which balances flexibility with performance for general purpose ABM. Methods for ensuring high computational efficacy are demonstrated by, minimising data movement, and ensuring high device utilisation by exploiting opportunities for concurrent code execution within a model and through the use of ensembles of simulations. A novel hierarchical sub‐modelling approach is also presented which can be used to model certain types of recursive behaviours. This feature is shown to be essential in providing a mechanism to resolve competition for resources between agents within a parallel environment which would otherwise introduce race conditions. To understand the performance characteristics of the software, a benchmark model with millions of agents is used to explore the use of simulation ensembles and to parametrically investigate concurrent code execution within a model. Performance speedups are demonstrated of 3.5 and 10 respectively over a baseline GPU implementation. Our hierarchical sub‐modelling approach is used to demonstrate the implementation of a recursive algorithm to resolve competition of agent movement which occurs as a result of agent desire to simultaneously occupy discrete areas high in a ‘resource’. The algorithm is used to implement a classical socio‐economics model, Sugarscape, with populations of up to 16M agents.
AdaptiveH∞Observer‐Based Sliding Mode Control for Uncertain Fractional‐Order Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Huang Jiaoru , Xie Guo , Gao Song , Qian Fucai
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the robust control problem is investigated for fractional‐order nonlinear systems(FONS) with the unknown‐but‐bounded parametric uncertainties and the external disturbances. First, an adaptive observer is designed to estimate the system states and the unknown parameters. Then based on the observer, a fractional‐order sliding mode controller is designed and the asymptotic stability sufficient condition is derived for the closed‐loop system on the basis of Lyapunov stability criterion. The control strategy can not only realize the system stabilization, but also estimate the system unknown parameters and the system states. Moreover, a fractional‐order power type continuous function is adopted to replace the traditional sign function in the switch control component, the proposed method can avoid the chattering phenomenon. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the presented method. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Antimicrobial peptides in Dendrobium officinale: Genomic parameters, peptide structures, and gene expression patterns
Authors: Huang Huiming , Lee Wen‐Yee , Zou Hui , Li Haiming , Zhang Shuhe , Li Heping , Lin Jiangbo
Published: May 2023

A weak codon usage bias was found in Dendrobium catenatum (D. officiale) antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), after the analysis of relative synonymous codon usage, GC contents, and the effective number of codons. The codon usage preference was mainly influenced by natural selection pressure. The self‐optimized prediction method and SWISS‐MODEL were applied for peptide structural and domain analyses, and some typical antimicrobial domains were found in D. officinale AMP amino sequences, such as knot1 domain, gibberellins‐stimulated domain, cupin_1 domain, defensin_like domain, and SLR1‐BP (S locus‐related glycoprotein 1 binding pollen coat protein) domain. To investigate the AMPs gene expression pattern, abiotic stresses, such as salt stress, drought stress, salicylic acid (SA), and methyl jasmonate (JA), were applied and the gene expression levels were detected by the real‐time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results showed that, even though the basic AMPs gene expressions were low, some AMPs can still be induced by salt dress, while the drought dress did not show the same impact. The SA and JA signaling pathways might be involved in most of the AMPs expressions. The natural selection of the D. officinale AMPs and thus forming diverse types of AMPs enhanced the plant's innate immunity and disease resistance capability, which would lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanism for D. officinale adapting to the environment. The finding that salt stress, SA, and JA signaling pathways can induce AMP expression lays a foundation for the further development and functional verification of D. officinale AMPs.
The influence of L‐proline and fulvic acid on oxidative stress and semen quality of buffalo bull semen following cryopreservation
Authors: Ramazani Negin , Mahd Gharebagh Farid , Soleimanzadeh Ali , Arslan Halil Ozancan , Keles Esin , Gradinarska‐Yanakieva Desislava Georgieva , Arslan‐Acaröz Damla , Zhandi Mahdi , Baran Alper , Ayen Esmail , Dinç Dursun Ali
Published: May 2023

Background

This study investigates the effects of cryopreservation and supplementation of Azeri water buffalo's semen with proline (Lp) and fulvic acid (FA).

Objectives

Therefore, this study aimed to assess motility parameters, sperm viability, oxidative stress parameters, and DNA damage to detect the optimum concentrations of Lp and FA for buffalo semen cryopreservation.

Methods

Thirty semen samples of three buffalo bulls were diluted in Tris‐egg yolk extender and divided into 12 equal groups including control (C), Lp‐10, Lp‐20, Lp‐40, Lp‐60, Lp‐80 (containing 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 mM L‐proline, respectively), FA‐0.2, FA‐0.5, FA‐0.8, FA‐1.1, FA‐1.4 and FA‐1.7 (containing 0.2%, 0.5%, 0.8%, 1.1%, 1.4% and 1.7% fulvic acid, respectively).

Results

The velocity parameters, TM and PM were improved by FA‐1.7, FA‐1.4, Lp‐40 and Lp‐60 groups compared to the C group but no significant difference was found regarding the amplitude of lateral head displacement and straightness compared to the control groups. The percentage of sperm viability and PMF were increased by FA‐1.7, FA‐1.4, FA‐1.1, Lp‐40 and Lp‐60 groups compared to C group, while in terms of sperm DNA damage FA‐1.7, FA‐1.4, FA‐1.1, Lp‐10, Lp‐20, Lp‐40 and Lp‐60 groups showed better results compared to C group. The results also showed that FA‐1.7, FA‐1.4, FA‐1.1, Lp‐20, Lp‐40 and Lp‐60 groups could improve TAC, SOD, GSH and decrease MDA levels. Also, FA‐1.7, FA‐1.4, Lp‐20 and Lp‐40 groups could improve GPx levels but just FA‐1.7, and Lp‐40 groups could improve CAT levels compared to C group.

Conclusions

Thus, it can be concluded that L‐proline and fulvic acid supplementations can improve the quality parameters of post‐thawed buffalo bull semen.
Luminescence study of Dy3+ doped magnesium aluminate phosphors for white light
Authors: Kaur Prabhpreet , Rani Suman , Srivastava A.K.
Published: May 2023

Pure MgAl2O4 and a series of Dysprosium (Dy3+) doping in MgAl2O4 nanoparticles has synthesized using wet chemical sol‐gel method and prepared samples were sintered at 1100 °C. X‐ray diffraction analysis confirms the cubic phase of MgAl2O4 spinel without any impurity in phase even with different doping concentrations of Dy3+ (0.2–1.8 mol %). Under ultraviolet irradiation (283 nm) the fluorescence spectrum of pure MgAl2O4 shows maximum emission in the green‐yellow region. On Dy3+ doping in MgAl2O4, broad emission spectra have been observed due to energy transition that takes place between the host and dopant. To explore the nanophosphor for white light, chromaticity coordinates (CIE), color temperature (CCT), color rendering index (CRI) and color purity were analyzed and at 1.4 mol % doping concentration of Dy3+ in MgAl2O4 got best results i. e. CIE co‐ordinates (0.3326, 0.3334), CCT (5487), CRI (95) and minimum value of color purity (0.20 %). It is observed that emission shifts from yellow‐green to nearly white light emission as the doping is incorporated into the host. It is found that the prepared nanophosphors are energy efficient white light material.
Correction to: Preregistration in Animal Research
Authors: Heinl Céline , Schönfelder Gilbert , Bert Bettina
Published: May 2023

Chapter 37 was previously published non-open access. It has now been changed to open access under a CC BY 4.0 license and the copyright holder updated to ‘The Author(s)’. The book has also been updated with this change.
Struktur und Einrichtung des Deutschen Cochlea-Implantat-Registers (DCIR)
Authors: Stöver T. , Plontke S. K. , Guntinas-Lichius O. , Welkoborsky H-J. , Zahnert T. , Delank K. W. , Deitmer T. , Esser D. , Dietz A. , Wienke A. , Loth A. , Dazert S.
Published: May 2023

Die Versorgung von hochgradig schwerhörigen oder ertaubten Menschen mit einem Cochleaimplantat (CI) ist ein sehr erfolgreicher, aber auch komplexer und lebenslanger Versorgungsprozess, der eine hohe Struktur‑, Prozess- und Ergebnisqualität erfordert. Die Verwendung von medizinischen Registern stellt ein geeignetes Instrument dar, um versorgungsrelevante Qualitätssicherung zu betreiben und gleichzeitig wissenschaftliche Daten zu erheben. Auf Initiative des Präsidiums der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Hals-Chirurgie (DGHNO-KHC) sollte daher ein deutschlandweites CI-Register (Deutsches Cochlea-Implantat-Register, DCIR) eingerichtet werden. Hierzu sollten folgende Ziele erreicht werden: 1. rechtliche und vertragliche Grundlagen des Registers; 2. Definition der Registerinhalte; 3. Erarbeitung von Auswertungsstandards (klinikspezifische und nationale Jahresberichte); 4. Entwicklung eines Logos; 5. produktiver Betrieb des Registers. Nach der Definition eines Leistungskatalogs, der die Inhalte, die Struktur und den Betrieb des DCIR festlegt, wurde ein Registerbetreiber mit audiologischer Expertise gesucht. Nach Abwägung verschiedener Angebote wurde das Register schließlich in Kooperation mit dem Anbieter INNOFORCE (Ruggell, Liechtenstein) als Registerbetreiber technisch umgesetzt. Dabei wurde auch eine Schnittstelle zur Überführung von Daten aus bereits existierenden Datenbanken realisiert sowie ein Datenschutzkonzept für den produktiven Betrieb des DCIR unter wissenschaftlicher Leitung des Präsidiums der DGHNO-KHC erarbeitet. Seit Januar 2022 können von den CI-versorgenden Einrichtungen (CIVE) pseudonymisierte Daten in das DCIR eingegeben werden. Bisher haben sich 75 Kliniken aus Deutschland zur Registerteilnahme vertraglich bereit erklärt. In den ersten 15 Monaten des Registerbetriebs wurden bereits mehr als 2500 CI von mehr als 2000 Patienten erfolgreich in das DCIR aufgenommen. Die hier präsentierte Arbeit beschreibt die Strukturierung, den Aufbau und die erfolgreiche Einrichtung des DCIR. Die Einführung des DCIR stellt eine wichtige Säule einer zukünftigen wissenschaftlich basierten Qualitätssicherung der CI-Versorgung dar. Das hier dargestellte Register kann daher beispielgebend für andere Bereiche der medizinischen Versorgung betrachtet werden und setzt damit auch international Standards.
Subchondral insufficiency fracture is a predictive factor of osteoarthritis progression and conversion to arthroplasty in non‐surgically treated medial meniscus root tear
Authors: Choi Byung Sun , Chung Jeehyeok , Kwak Junpyo , Han Hyuk‐Soo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To investigate the radiographic and clinical outcomes of non‐surgical treatment for medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT), and prognostic factors for osteoarthritis (OA) progression and clinical failure.

Methods

A prospectively collected database was retrospectively reviewed for patients who were diagnosed with acute medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT) between 2013 and 2021 and treated non‐surgically for more than 2 years. Patient demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes including pain numeric rating scale (NRS), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity scale were evaluated. For radiographic evaluation, knee radiographs were obtained to assess the angle of knee alignment and Kellgren–Lawrence (K–L) grade during the first and annually follow‐up visits. Baseline magnetic resonance (MR) images were reviewed for the presence of medial meniscus extrusion, bone marrow edema, subchondral insufficiency fracture of medial femoral condyle, and cartilage lesion. The OA progression group was defined as patients who experienced a worsening of one or more grades in the K–L classification system. Prognostic factors were evaluated for OA progression and conversion to total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Results

Ninety‐four patients (90 female and 4 male) with a mean age of 67.0 ± 7.3 years (range, 53–83 years) were followed for a mean of 46.1 ± 22.1 months (range, 24.1–170.5). During the follow‐up period, no significant differences in clinical scores were observed, and there were also no significant differences between the groups with and without OA progression. Overall, 12 patients (13%) underwent TKA at a mean of 20.7 ± 16.5 months (range, 8–69 months) and 34 patients (36%) demonstrated OA progression at a mean time of 24 ± 15 months (range, 12–62). The subchondral insufficiency fracture was a prognostic factor for OA progression (p = 0.045 for knee radiograph and p = 0.019 for MR) and conversion to TKA (RR, 4.08 [95% CI 1.23–13.57]; p = 0.022).

Conclusions

Non‐surgical treatment for acute medial meniscus posterior root tear did not result in any significant change in clinical outcomes from the initial to the final follow‐up. The rate of conversion to arthroplasty was 13%, and the rate of osteoarthritis progression was 36%. Furthermore, subchondral insufficiency fracture was found to be a concomitant prognostic factor correlated with OA progression and conversion to arthroplasty. This information can provide insights for physicians when discussing treatment options with patients, particularly regarding the use of non‐surgical treatment and may contribute as a source for future studies of medial meniscus posterior root tear.

Level of evidence

IV.
Free tendon grafts for surgical management of chronic tears of the main body of the Achilles tendon: a systematic review
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Bartoli Alessandro , Sammaria Giuliano , Migliorini Filippo , Karlsson Jon , Oliva Francesco
Published: May 2023

Purpose

After four weeks from injury, tears of the Achilles tendon are considered chronic. Their management is challenging, and the use of a graft is suggested when the gap between proximal and distal stumps is greater than 6 cm. The present study systematically reviews the outcome of free tendon grafts in chronic ruptures of the Achilles tendon, evaluating clinical outcomes, complications and return to sport.

Methods

The present study was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Web of Science databases were accessed in February 2023. All the published clinical studies reporting clinical outcome, return to sport and complications of free tendon grafts used the treatment of chronic rupture of the midportion of the Achilles Tendon were accessed. The mean CMS (Coleman Methodology Score) of 65.7 suggested an overall good quality of the available published articles, attesting to the low risk of bias.

Results

Data from 22 articles (368 patients with a mean age of 47 years) were retrieved. The average time from rupture to surgery was 25.1 week. At last follow‐up, the AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgery) and ATRS (Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score) scores improved of 33.8 (P = 0.0004), and 45.1 points (P = 0.0001) respectively. Return to activity was reported in 105 patients, and 82 (78.1%) had no activity limitations, while 19 (18.1%) had limited recreational but not daily activity limitations, and 4 (3.8%) reported limitations in daily activities. Return to sport data was reported in six studies, and 45 of 93 (48.4%) patients returned to sport at an average of 22.6 weeks.

Conclusion

In chronic tears of the Achilles tendon, with a gap of at least 6 cm, free tendon grafts allow predictable return to sport and acceptable recovery function.

Level of evidence

Level IV.
Experimental and simulated study of 3D-printed couplings’ suitability for industrial application
Authors: Baladés Nuria , Remigio Paula , Sales David L. , Moreno Daniel , López Jesús M. , Molina Sergio I.
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the possibility of applying reverse engineering to flexible coupling spare parts through additive manufacturing. Although couplings’ simplicity makes them go unnoticed, they connect elements that transmit power between two shafts, thus being an essential component for most of the machinery currently used in the industry. In this study, flexible couplings with different infill density (60% and 80%) were 3D printed by the fused filament fabrication technique. The original and the additive manufactured couplings were modelled to compare their compressive response and energy-absorbing characteristics, and experimental tests were performed to validate finite element analysis. To derive an optimal material distribution within coupling structure, a generative design approach was conducted through nTopology software. With this novel simulation-driven design, it is possible to reduce the weight of the redesigned part up to 15.8% by defining the wall thickness of the internal structure based on the results of finite element simulation, while maintaining its functionality. Moreover, an economic-environmental study was carried out. Results ensure that the 3D printed prototypes are suitable for replacing the original one under its current operating conditions. Additionally, the economic study shows that the redesigned couplings allow companies to save more than €2700 per coupling in relation to CO2 emission payments.
A review of current effective COVID-19 testing methods and quality control
Authors: Cheng Lijia , Lan Liang , Ramalingam Murugan , He Jianrong , Yang Yimin , Gao Min , Shi Zheng
Published: May 2023

COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to severe illness. The virus is extremely contagious, early and accurate diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 is crucial to contain its spread, to provide prompt treatment, and to prevent complications. Currently, the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considered to be the gold standard for detecting COVID-19 in its early stages. In addition, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LMAP), clustering rule interval short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), colloidal gold immunochromatographic assay (GICA), computed tomography (CT), and electrochemical sensors are also common tests. However, these different methods vary greatly in terms of their detection efficiency, specificity, accuracy, sensitivity, cost, and throughput. Besides, most of the current detection methods are conducted in central hospitals and laboratories, which is a great challenge for remote and underdeveloped areas. Therefore, it is essential to review the advantages and disadvantages of different COVID-19 detection methods, as well as the technology that can enhance detection efficiency and improve detection quality in greater details.
Berberine attenuates uric acid-induced cell injury by inhibiting NLRP3 signaling pathway in HK-2 cells
Authors: Zheng Jingna , Gong Shiting , Wu Gong , Zheng Xiaohong , Li Jincan , Nie Juan , Liu Yanlu , Chen Baoyi , Liu Yuhong , Su Ziren , Chen Jiannan , Li Yucui
Published: May 2023

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a common chronic metabolic disease that can cause renal failure and even death in severe cases. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid derived fromPhellodendri Cortexwith strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effects of berberine (BBR) against uric acid (UA)-induced HK-2 cells and unravel their regulatory potential mechanisms. The CCK8 assay was carried out to detect cell viability. The expression levels of inflammatory factors interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The expression of the apoptosis-related protein (cleaved-Caspase3, cleaved-Caspase9, BAX, BCL-2) was detected by western blot. The effects of BBR on the activities of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and the expression of the downstream genes were determined by RT-PCR and western blot in HK-2 cells. From the data, BBR significantly reversed the up-regulation of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-18) and LDH. Furthermore, BBR down-regulated protein expression of pro-apoptotic proteins BAX, cleaved caspase3 (cl-Caspase3), cleaved caspase9 (cl-Caspase9), and enhanced the expression of antiapoptotic protein BCL-2. Simultaneously, BBR inhibited the activated NLPR3 and reduced the mRNA levels of NLRP3, Caspase1, IL-18, and IL-1β. Also, BBR attenuated the expression of NLRP3 pathway-related proteins (NLRP3, ASC, Caspase1, cleaved-Caspase1, IL-18, IL-1β, and GSDMD). Furthermore, specific NLRP3-siRNA efficiently blocked UA-induced the level of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-18) and LDH and further inhibited activated NLRP3 pathway. Collectively, our results suggested that BBR can alleviate cell injury induced by UA. The underlying unctionary mechanism may be through the NLRP3 signaling pathway.
Excretion of glucose analogue with SGLT2 affinity predicts response effectiveness to sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Geist Barbara Katharina , Brath Helmut , Zisser Lucia , Yu Josef , Fueger Barbara , Nics Lukas , Patronas Eva Maria , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Hacker Marcus , Rasul Sazan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) regulation, developed as treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes, can be imaged with the glucose analogue alpha-methyl-4-deoxy-4-[18F]fluoro-d-glucopyranoside (Me4FDG), a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer with a high affinity for SGLT1 and SGLT2 proteins. With regard to therapy effectiveness, we aimed to investigate whether clinical parameters or Me4FDG excretion could predict response to SGLT2i in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In a longitudinal, prospective study, 19 patients with type 2 diabetes underwent Me4FDG combined PET and magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) scans at baseline and 2 weeks after initiation of therapy with SGLT2i, accompanied by the collection of blood and urine samples. Me4FDG-excretion was determined from the Me4FDG uptake in the bladder. Long-term response was determined by HbA1c level after 3 months; a strong response to the therapy was defined as a reduction of HbA1c by at least 10% from baseline.

Results

SGLT2i resulted in significantly increased Me4FDG excretion (4.8 vs. 45.0, P < 0.001) and urine glucose (56 vs. 2806 mg/dl, P < 0.001). Baseline urine glucose and baseline Me4FDG excretion correlated both with long-term decline in HbA1c with r = 0.55 (P < 0.05). However, only Me4FDG excretion was a predictor of a strong response to SGLT2i (P = 0.005, OR 1.9).

Conclusions

Using Me4FDG-PET, we demonstrated for the first time renal SGLT2-related excretion before and after short-term SGLT2i treatment. In contrary to other clinical parameters, SGLT2-related excretion before treatment was a robust predictor of long-term HbA1c response in patients with type 2 diabetes, suggesting that therapy effectiveness is only dependent of endogenous SGLT2 processes.
Safety and performance of MR-conditional pacing systems with automated MRI mode at 1.5 and 3 Tesla
Authors: Dacher Jean-Nicolas , Langguth Patrick , Adam David , Winkler Walther-Benedikt , Martí-Almor Julio , Prenner Günther , Trucco María Emilce , Kol Amir , Xiang Meixiang , Melissano Donato , Fawaz Hanan , Lau Dennis H.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To evaluate at 1.5 and 3 T MRI the safety and performance of trademarked ENO®, TEO®, or OTO® pacing systems with automated MRI Mode and the image quality of non-enhanced MR examinations.

Methods

A total of 267 implanted patients underwent MRI examination (brain, cardiac, shoulder, cervical spine) at 1.5 (n = 126) or 3 T (n = 141). MRI-related device complications, lead electrical performances stability at 1-month post-MRI, proper functioning of the automated MRI mode and image quality were evaluated.

Results

Freedom from MRI-related complications at 1 month post-MRI was 100% in both 1.5 and 3 T arms (both p < 0.0001). The stability of pacing capture threshold was respectively at 1.5 and 3 T (atrial:: 98.9% (p = 0.001) and 100% (p < 0.0001); ventricular: both 100% (p < 0001)). The stability of sensing was respectively at 1.5 and 3 T (atrial: 100% (p = 0.0001) and 96.9% (p = 0.01); ventricular: 100% (p < 0.0001) and 99.1% (p = 0.0001)). All devices switched automatically to the programmed asynchronous mode in the MRI environment and to initially programmed mode after the MRI exam. While all MR examinations were assessed as interpretable, artifacts deteriorated a subset of examinations including mostly cardiac and shoulder ones.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the safety and electrical stability of ENO®, TEO®, or OTO® pacing systems at 1 month post-MRI at 1.5 and 3 T. Even if artifacts were noticed in a subset of examinations, overall interpretability was preserved.

Clinical relevance statement

ENO®, TEO®, and OTO® pacing systems switch to MR-mode when detecting magnetic field and switch back on conventional mode after MRI. Their safety and electrical stability at 1 month post MRI were shown at 1.5 and 3 T. Overall interpretability was preserved.

Key Points

• Patients implanted with an MRI conditional cardiac pacemaker can be safely scanned under 1.5 or 3 Tesla MRI with preserved interpretability.

• Electrical parameters of the MRI conditional pacing system remain stable after a 1.5 or 3 Tesla MRI scan.

• The automated MRI mode enabled the automatic switch to asynchronous mode in the MRI environment and to initial settings after the MRI scan in all patients.
Modified—modified radical mastoidectomy
Authors: Dosemane Deviprasad , Khadilkar Meera Niranjan , Parvathareddy Navya
Published: May 2023

Purpose

It is unusual to have communication from the external auditory canal (EAC) directly to the mastoid, totally sparing the tympanum. These patients need a different surgical approach, a modified canal wall-down procedure, to completely clear the disease but fully preserve the tympanum. We present one such exceptional case.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old lady presented with ear discharge for 1 year. Imaging confirmed the canal-mastoid fistula, but the entire tympanum was normal. We performed a modified-modified radical mastoidectomy.

Conclusions

Canal-mastoid fistula is an infrequent entity and may be idiopathic. Despite being evident on clinical examination, imaging aids in assessing size and location of the defect. Although EAC reconstruction may be attempted, the majority require a canal wall-down procedure.
Improving radiation dosimetry with an automated micronucleus scoring system: correction of automated scoring errors
Authors: Lee Younghyun , Jin Young Woo , Seong Ki Moon , Wilkins Ruth C. , Jang Seongjae
Published: May 2023

Radiation dose estimations performed by automated counting of micronuclei (MN) have been studied for their utility for triage following large-scale radiological incidents; although speed is essential, it also is essential to estimate radiation doses as accurately as possible for long-term epidemiological follow-up. Our goal in this study was to evaluate and improve the performance of automated MN counting for biodosimetry using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay. We measured false detection rates and used them to improve the accuracy of dosimetry. The average false-positive rate for binucleated cells was 1.14%; average false-positive and -negative MN rates were 1.03% and 3.50%, respectively. Detection errors seemed to be correlated with radiation dose. Correction of errors by visual inspection of images used for automated counting, called the semi-automated and manual scoring method, increased accuracy of dose estimation. Our findings suggest that dose assessment of the automated MN scoring system can be improved by subsequent error correction, which could be useful for performing biodosimetry on large numbers of people rapidly, accurately, and efficiently.