bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase suppresses insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor expression to inhibit cell adhesion and proliferation in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Zihao , Wang Xu , Liu Yuan , Wu Hao , Zhu Xingyu , Ye Chunshui , Ren Huicheng , Chong Wei , Shang Liang , Li Leping
Published: January 2024

Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) has recently emerged as a novel tumor suppressor. Researchers have observed that LHPP plays a crucial role in inhibiting proliferation, growth, migration, invasion, and cell metabolism across various cancers. Nevertheless, the specific functions and underlying mechanisms of LHPP as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer (GC) require further exploration. The expression of LHPP was assessed in human GC specimens and cell lines. Various assays were employed to evaluate the impact of LHPP on GC cells. RNA sequencing and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were conducted to unravel the mechanism through which LHPP regulates GC cell behavior. Additionally, xenograft nude mouse models were utilized to investigate the in vivo effects of LHPP. The findings indicate that LHPP, functioning as a tumor suppressor, is downregulated in both GC tissues and cells. LHPP emerges as an independent risk factor for GC patients, and its expression level exhibits a positive correlation with patient prognosis. LHPP exerts inhibitory effects on the adhesion and proliferation of GC cells by suppressing the expression of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and modulating downstream signaling pathways. Consequently, LHPP holds potential as a biomarker for targeted therapy involving IGF1R inhibition in GC patients.
Can apparently transient life events trigger long‐term lower urinary tract symptoms?
Authors: Sinha Sanjay , Vasudeva Pawan
Published: January 2024

Introduction

One‐time life events such as neurological injury can result in lifelong lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). However, it is unclear whether an apparently transient life event can also trigger long‐term LUTS. This review examines the possibility of an association and hypothesizes the pathogenesis.

Methods

A pubmed search was conducted using the MeSH words “life change events,” “child abuse,” or “stress disorders, Posttraumatic”, and LUTS. Additional manuscripts were identified by a hand and citation search.

Results

Long‐term LUTS was noted following temporally remote childhood sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, and stressful experiences in adults. There was evidence for an association of childhood sexual abuse and adverse childhood events with both storage as well as voiding LUTS. There was limited evidence that the number of adverse childhood events might increase the risk and severity of LUTS. There was evidence of an association between post‐traumatic stress disorder in adults and LUTS. The finding of mental health disorders in such patients could explain some but not all of the observed association suggesting that other factors might also be important.

Conclusions

There is an association noted between apparently transient lifetime events and the subsequent reporting of LUTS. The timing of these adverse experiences might be important in determining the propensity for clinical manifestation. There is a need to explore this association, establish causality, and determine the underlying etiopathogenesis.
Is the insomnia phenotype the common denominator in LUTS during transition periods? An expert NOPIA research group review
Authors: Verbakel Irina , Bou kheir George , de Rijk Mathijs , Dhondt Karlien , Bliwise Don , Pauwaert Kim , Monaghan Thomas , Hervé François , Vogelaers Dirk , Mariman An , Everaert Karel
Published: January 2024

Aims

As people age, sleep stages and characteristics transition over time, but sleep deficits can profoundly impact health and cognitive functioning. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to impaired attention and productivity, weakened immunity, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. Insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, hormonal changes, nocturia, neurological disorders, and life events interfere with sleep patterns and some are linked to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). This NOPIA symposium on Lifelong LUTS aimed to analyze the literature on associations between sleep and LUTS, generate ideas for future research, and explore whether there is support for the concept of lifelong LUTS in relation to changes in sleep throughout the lifespan.

Methods

An international panel of experts took part in an online meeting addressing the role of lifelong LUTS in relationship to sleep and the brain organized by the NOPIA research group. The manuscript summarizes existing literature, hypotheses, future research ideas, and clinical recommendations.

Results

Insomnia, sleep fragmentation, hyperarousal, and sensory processing disorders emerged as potential factors in the relationship between sleep and LUTS. Insomnia is often a persistent factor and may have been the initial symptom; however, it is often unrecognized and/or unaddressed in healthcare settings. By recognizing insomnia as a primary driver of various health issues, including nocturia, transitional care aims to address root causes and underlying problems earlier to initiate appropriate treatment.

Conclusions

A multidisciplinary approach with collaboration between healthcare professionals from various disciplines, such as urology, sleep medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, and geriatrics, is needed and should include validated measurements such as the insomnia severity index and sleep and voiding diaries. Ensuring ongoing follow‐up and monitoring through transitional care is crucial for individuals with persistent sleep problems and LUTS, allowing issues that arise or fluctuate over the lifespan to be addressed.
Should hormone replacement therapy (any route of administration) be considered in all postmenopausal women with lower urinary tract symptoms? Report from the ICI‐RS 2023
Authors: Taithongchai Annika , Mohamed‐Ahmed Rayan , Sinha Sanjay , Gibson William , Giarenis Ilias , Robinson Dudley , Abrams Paul
Published: January 2024

Aims

This International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society report aims to summarize the evidence and uncertainties regarding the use of hormone replacement therapy by any route in the management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) including recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI), with a review of special considerations for the elderly. Research question proposals to further this field have been highlighted.

Methods

An overview of the existing evidence, guidelines, and consensus regarding the use of topical or systemic estrogens in the management of LUTS.

Results

There are currently evidence and recommendations to offer topical estrogens to postmenopausal women with overactive bladder symptoms as well as postmenopausal women with rUTIs. Systemic estrogens however have been shown in a meta‐analysis to have a negative effect on LUTS and, therefore are not currently recommended.

Conclusions

Although available evidence and recommendations exist for the use of topical estrogens, few women are commenced on these in primary care. There remain large gaps still within our knowledge of the use of estrogens within the management of LUTS, particularly on when it should be commenced, the length of time treatment should be continued for, and barriers to prescribing.
Development and validation of the Convalescence Symptom Assessment Scale for EsophageCtomy patients
Authors: Ge Hui , Ma Xuanxuan , Li Wen , Wang Pan , Zhang Zonghao , Qin Qiaoyun , Li Shuwen
Published: January 2024

Aim

A specific, valid and reliable measure is much needed to dynamically assess the recovery of symptoms in oesophagectomy patients. This study describes developing and validating the Convalescent Symptom Assessment Scale for oesophagectomy patients (CSAS_EC).

Design

An instrument development and cross‐sectional validation study was conducted.

Methods

This study consists of two components: instrument development and psychometric tests. In instrument development, the literature review, qualitative interviews, Delphi method expert consultation and face validation were used to develop and refine scale content. In psychometric tests, the clinical test version scale was used to conduct a cross‐sectional in the thoracic surgery department from 17 June to 20 November 2022. The Classical Test Theory and Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) analyses examined psychometric properties.

Results

In instrument development, literature review (n = 20), qualitative interviews (n = 21), expert consultation (n = 12) and pre‐survey (n = 15) led to the development of the clinical test version scale. In psychometric tests, a total of 331 participants were enrolled. Confirmatory factor analysis and MIRT analysis verified that a model with 28 items in four dimensions was good. The four dimensions were early recovery symptoms, late recovery symptoms, persistent present symptoms and psychosocial symptoms. The Cronbach's α is 0.827. The validity and reliability were demonstrated to be acceptable.

Conclusions

The CSAS_EC scale can be used as a tool to evaluate the recovery status of oesophagectomy patients.
Detection of compatibilizer efficiency in conductive polymer blends by impedance spectroscopy: Microstructure evaluation approach
Authors: Dadashi Parsa , Hashemi Motlagh Ghodratollah
Published: January 2024

A novel approach of electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is proposed to investigate the role of a compatibilizer on nanoparticle distribution in polymer blends with a co‐continuous morphology. Polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) PP/EVA blends containing 3 vol% carbon nanotubes (CNT) with varying contents of polypropylene‐grafted‐ maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) as compatibilizer were directly melt mixed. Microscopy, rheology, and thermodynamic analyses confirmed the distribution of CNTs in PP, EVA, and their interface. The EIS behavior of the blend nanocomposites was remarkably changed due to the formation of interphase by PP‐g‐MA/CNT. It was found that as the efficiency of compatibilizer increases the frequency dependency of the impedance diminishes showing a significant shift in the frequency cutoff from 104 Hz to 5 × 105 Hz. The EIS results also showed that compatibilizer can affect the loss factor. Incorporating 5 vol% or 10 vol% of the compatibilizer slightly reduced the loss factor, but a considerable reduction was observed at 20 vol% at which a conductive continuous interphase of compatibilizer formed at the interface. Moreover, the presence of compatibilizer led to a remarkable increase in dielectric constant by four orders of magnitude. EIS can effectively and comfortably trace the performance of a compatibilizer in a conductive polymer blend nanocomposite.

Highlights

EIS measurements describe microstructure of conductive polymer blend.

EIS detects morphology development of a compatibilizer at varying contents.

Migration of compatibilizer intensifies the Nyquist diameter decrement.

Compatibilizer decreases dielectric relaxation time.
Comprehensive performance of polycarbonate films doped with Tb(III) and Eu(III) complexes
Authors: Wu Fang , Zhang Xinfei , Wang Qi , Yu Dayang , Zheng Pan , Zhu Rongli , Wang Xu , Pu Zejun , Zhong Jiachun
Published: January 2024

In order to expand the application of biobased polycarbonate in optical components, a series of isosorbide polycarbonate (PICC)/rare earth ion complex fluorescent composites were prepared by using PICC as a macromolecular ligand and Eu3+ and Tb3+ as rare earth luminescence centers. The coordination system between rare earth ions and PICC was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, DSC and TGA. On adjusting the ratio of Eu3+ and Tb3+, a PICC/rare earth ion composite with adjustable fluorescence color was obtained. Also, the thermal, mechanical and optical properties of a series of PICC/rare earth ion fluorescent films with different ratios were tested. A transparent fluorescent composite material with excellent mechanical properties and tunable fluorescent colors has been prepared. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Forgetting cane grasses: Switching temporal focus to reveal mosaics of Saccharum diversity
Authors: Denham Tim
Published: January 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Sugarcane (Saccharum cvs.) is one of the most important cash crops globally. Related varieties and species of cane grasses of the genus Saccharum are also important subsistence crops in the Indo‐Pacific region. Despite the significance of these crops globally and recent advances in genetic characterisation, the histories and geographies of domestication are poorly understood. A scenario for the geodomestication of sugarcane is proposed to highlight the diversity of Saccharum species and their significance for future proofing sugarcane. The historical agrobiodiversity of cane grasses, together with practices of cultivation, uses and associated forms of practical and symbolic knowledge, provide culturally appropriate bases for crop improvement.

An historical scenario for the domestication of sugarcane (Saccharum cvs.) is proposed based on a literary review of a range of agronomic, archaeobotanical, archaeological, genetic, historical, linguistic and phytogeographic sources. The proposed scenario outlines a protracted, multistage domestication process for the extended period before the directed breeding programmes that led to the development of modern commercial cultivars over the last 100 years or so. First, the initial management, cultivation and translocation of Saccharum robustum within the circum‐New Guinea region produced cultiwilds (viz., morphogenetically wild plants cultivated and translocated by people) and, arguably, some S. robustum cultivars. Second, the spontaneous generation of sugar‐rich pith in some S. robustum plants and subsequent anthropic selection led to the development of ‘domesticated’ Saccharum officinarum within the circum‐New Guinea region. Third, the dispersal under cultivation of S. officinarum cultivars brought them into contact with wild‐type Saccharum spontaneum populations around the Indo‐Pacific, which led to the development of sugarcane (S. officinarum × spontaneum) hybrids that were subsequently cultivated and selected vegetatively. These ancient hybrids Saccharum barberi and Saccharum sinense became regionally important in India and China, respectively.

Although much research has focussed on clarifying the Saccharum lineages directly contributing to the major commercial sugarcane cultivar lineages, such a teleological interpretation misses a vast range of agrobiodiversity in terms of the plants (S. robustum, S. officinarum, S. barberi, S. sinense and S. cvs.); domestication status (wild, cultiwild and domestic); and, practices (associated with cultivation, use and traditional knowledge) in the past. The diversity of plants and practices in the past provides the historical backdrop against which any linear interpretation of sugarcane domestication should be understood. This historical reconstruction of domestication processes draws attention to this agrobiodiversity, which can inform breeding programmes seeking to diversify and improve sugarcane cultivars for commercial and subsistence agriculture into the future.
Factors associated with sensitisation to selected aero‐allergens in children and adolescents with asthma followed up at Laquintinie Hospital Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Eposse Ekoube Charlotte , Abba Soumaiyatou , Endale Mangamba Mireille , Mandeng Ma Linwa Edgar , Tchouamo Pokem Annick , Mbonjo Bitsie Dora , Disso Massako Jeannette , Heles Nsang Emmanuel , Ngo Linwa Esther Eleonore , Kedy Mangamba Koum Daniele‐Christiane
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In spite of the substantial impact of pediatric asthma on healthcare resources, there is a notable dearth of research focusing on allergen sensitization specifically in children and adolescents with asthma in Cameroon, with existing studies primarily concentrating on adult populations. We, therefore, set out to determine factors associated with sensitization to selected aero‐allergens in children and adolescents with asthma followed up at Laquintinie Hospital Douala, Cameroon.

Methodology

We conducted a cross‐sectional analytical study on patients aged 2–17 years followed up for pediatric asthma at Laquintinie Hospital Douala for 8 months (January to August 2023). Skin prick tests were performed using selected standardized aeroallergens extracts. Factors associated with sensitization were determined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The threshold for significance was set at p < .05.

Results

In total, 126 children and adolescents with asthma were recruited, 50.79% of whom were male with an average age of 8.00 ± 3.99 years. Eight out of 10 patients (83.52%) were sensitized to common aero‐allergens (20.59% monosensitized and 79.41% polysensitized). The most common aero‐allergens found were the dust mites Dermatophagoïdes pteronyssinus (81.37%), Blomia tropicalis (67.64%) and Dermatophagoïdes farinae (52.94%) followed by Blatella species (25.49%). The factors independently associated with sensitization in our population were the personal history of allergic rhinitis in the patient [adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 4.07 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.41–11.76), b = 0.54, p = .009], chest tightness at rest [aOR: 5.92 (95% CI: 1.08–32.38), b = 0.87, p = .040), and age above 5 years [aOR: 4.65 (95% CI: 1.47–14.69), b = 0.59, p = .009).

Conclusion

Sensitization to multiple aeroallergens is common in children and adolescents with asthma, especially for dust mites and cockroaches. Factors associated with sensitization are patients aged >5 years, chest tightness at rest, and a personal history of allergic rhinitis.
1/f Noise During Thermal Treatment of Amorphous Films
Authors: Ovadyahu Zvi
Published: January 2024

Flicker noise is a sensitive tool for probing the dynamics of two‐level systems. Herein, this technique is employed to study the dependence of conductance noise on disorder for two versions of amorphous indium oxide films. The disorder in these substances may be tuned by thermal treatment that is manifested by enhanced conductivity. Structural studies reveal that this is mainly due to densification of the material. A similar reduction of volume has been achieved in glasses when subjected to high pressures. Both protocols, pressure and heat treatment, initiate nonequilibrium state that slowly relaxes. This relaxation is reflected in the sample conductivity and its optical transmission as a monotonic change. The magnitude of 1/f noise during these events turns out to fluctuate appreciably following changes in the sample conductance caused by thermal treatment. This may overshadow the tendency of the noise level to increase with disorder. Possible reasons for the fluctuations of noise levels in highly disordered systems are discussed.
Resilient output synchronization dynamic event‐triggered control to link faults in heterogeneous multi‐agent systems
Authors: Xia Lina , Li Qing , Song Ruizhuo , Liu Lu
Published: January 2024

The fully distributed output leader‐follower event‐triggered resilient control algorithm is proposed for heterogeneous multi‐agent systems (MASs) under communication link faults and constraints. An estimation of the information of the leader is achieved by designing a dynamic event‐triggered observer with resilience to link faults without using the eigenvalues of the global matrix. Zeno behavior is also excluded under the dynamic triggering mechanism. Considering that the state information of the follower is not available, a distributed output leader‐follower control law is further designed to achieve asymptotically convergence of the leader‐follower consensus error, and only the output information of followers is required. Finally, the availability of the theoretical results is shown in two numerical examples.
Performance evaluation of newly released cameras for fruit detection and localization in complex kiwifruit orchard environments
Authors: Liu Xiaojuan , Jing Xudong , Jiang Hanhui , Younas Shoaib , Wei Ruiyang , Dang Haojie , Wu Zhenchao , Fu Longsheng
Published: January 2024

Consumer RGB‐D and binocular stereo cameras were applied to fruit detection and localization. However, few studies are documented on performance comparison of newly released cameras under same scene in complex orchard. This study evaluates performance of consumer RGB‐D and binocular stereo cameras based on YOLOv5x for kiwifruit detection and localization and selection of optimal one with better application in complex orchard environment. Firstly, Azure Kinect, RealSense D435, and ZED 2i cameras were employed to capture images of kiwifruit canopies. Subsequently, YOLOv5x was applied to train and detect kiwifruits and calyxes in the images. Meanwhile, an overlap‐partitioning detection strategy was applied on kiwifruit and calyx detection. Additionally, spatial coordinate transformation was performed by integrating camera's extrinsic parameters and depth map generated by each camera. Finally, three‐dimensional coordinates of calyxes were calculated and compared with ground truth, followed by localization accuracy of calyxes were analyzed. Results show that YOLOv5x obtained mean average precision of 93.2%, 91.3%, and 95.8% for three cameras on kiwifruit and calyx detection, respectively. Overlap‐partitioning detection strategy improved the calyx detection and significantly increased average precision by 13.00%, 16.30%, and 7.70%, respectively. The mean absolute deviation of calyx coordinates on Y‐axis is relatively high for ZED 2i at 8.44 mm in comparison of 6.67 mm for Azure Kinect, while RealSense D435 achieved minimum of 10.42 mm on X‐axis and 18.33 mm on Z‐axis. Average spatial localization speed of calyxes in one image was 0.164 s, 0.037 s, and 0.062 s for Azure Kinect, RealSense D435, and ZED 2i, respectively. These results indicate the excellent performance of RealSense D435 than Azure Kinect and ZED 2i in kiwifruit orchard, which could be a valuable reference for other orchards to select a camera with high precision localization capacity.
Multidirectional analysis for sustainable development: An examination of sustainable policies, corporate social responsibility, and organizational performance
Authors: Jiang Shuhui , Chen Kang
Published: January 2024

It is crucial to bring efficiency in all business operations to improve a firm's performance such as supply chains since specialists have performed several studies to uncover the predictors that may support improving a firm's performance. How to achieve a level of sustainability is another challenge and an evolving debate for the researchers which requires sustainable policies to win over the competitors in the current era. This study attempts to investigate the connection of three sustainable aspects, that is, economic, social, and ecological strategies on organizational supply chain performance with the moderation of corporate social responsibility from stakeholder theory. The study conducted an empirical examination based on a six hundred and twenty‐eight sample size using a method of structure equation modeling. It is found that corporates may optimize a firm's performance by incorporating sustainable policies. Similarly, corporate social responsibility has a positive moderating influence between sustainable policies and supply chain performance. This study equips with insights into the sustainable advancement of the corporates which could be obtained through sustainable policies and corporate social responsibility to become sustainable organizations. In addition, this study endows with several fascinating suggestions for strategic management to achieve a win‐win level by focusing on the notion of sustainable policies and corporate social responsibility.
Uracil: A Pharmacophore with Diverse Biological Potential
Authors: Jain Kashish , Sharma Shivali , Utreja Divya
Published: January 2024

This review article delves into the intricate biological activities of uracil, an essential pyrimidine Base pivotal in RNA structures. Examining its involvement in nucleic acid metabolism, various multifunctional roles, spanning from influencing cell proliferation to its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. The study explores signal transduction pathways affected by uracil, unraveling potential therapeutic applications. By unraveling the nuanced biological mechanisms. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of uracil's impact, offering insights crucial for drug development and advancing biomedical research.
A Novel Mechanical Property Self‐Characterizing Hydrogel Fabricated with Aggregation Induced Fluorescence Emission Molecule
Authors: Fu Yuanyuan , Wang Na , Fang Siyu , Yang Xiaofei , Wu Zhonglian , Yao Hang , Chong Hui
Published: January 2024

A water soluble diacrylate decorated aggregation induced emission (AIE) fluorophore (tetraphenyl ethylene decorated with diacrylate, TPE‐D) has been synthesized via straight forward synthetical route. The compound displayed promising liquid viscosity sensing capability. Upon increasing the liquid viscosity, the fluorescence emission intensity was observed to enhance. By polymerization with diacrylate‐PEG, a novel mechanical parameter self‐characterizing fluorescent hydrogel has been constructed. Taking advantages of AIE nature of TPE‐D, the viscosity, elastic modulus and viscous modulus, in addition to the liquid viscosity, of the as‐constructed hydrogel can be reflected by fluorescent intensity. We wish this novel hydrogel can be further applied as 3D cell culture to disclose the mechanical influence on disease related cellular behavior.
Dual Function of the Third Component in Ternary Organic Solar Cells: Broaden the Spectrum and Optimize the Morphology
Authors: Liu Jiangang , Liu Xingpeng , Xin Jingming , Zhang Yutong , Wen Liangquan , Liang Qiuju , Miao Zongcheng
Published: January 2024

Ternary organic solar cells (T‐OSCs) have attracted significant attention as high‐performance devices. In recent years, T‐OSCs have achieved remarkable progress with power conversion efficiency (PCE) exceeding 19%. However, the introduction of the third component complicates the intermolecular interaction compared to the binary blend, resulting in poor controllability of active layer and limiting performance improvement. To address these issues, dual‐functional third components have been developed that not only broaden the spectral range but also optimize morphology. In this review, the effect of the third component on expanding the absorption range of T‐OSCs is first discussed. Second, the extra functions of the third component are introduced, including adjusting the crystallinity and molecular stack in active layer, regulating phase separation and purity, altering molecular orientation of the donor or acceptor. Finally, a summary of the current research progress is provided, followed by a discussion of future research directions.
Emerging Energy Harvesters in Flexible Bioelectronics: From Wearable Devices to Biomedical Innovations
Authors: Biswas Swarup , Lee Sang Won , Lee Yongju , Choi Hyo-Jeong , Chen Jianjun , Yang Xiao , Du Yuxuan , Falcone Natashya , Barros Natan Roberto de , Lee Sung-Min , Kim Hyeok , Khademhosseini Ali , Zhu Yangzhi
Published: January 2024

Flexible bioelectronic devices have attracted immense interest in the biomedical field because of their wearability, biocompatibility, diverse functionalities, and ease of personalization. Recently, flexible energy harvesters have been developed, and attempts have been made to integrate them with such devices, enabling them to operate without external batteries or power supply. In this review, the latest advances in flexible energy harvesters and their use in wearable devices are discussed. Energy harvesters for versatile biomedical applications are summarized. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of self‐powered biomedical systems that enable wearable healthcare monitoring and management are outlined.
Exploiting the Warburg Effect: Co‐Delivery of Metformin and FOXK2 siRNA for Ovarian Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhou Wenhui , Ma Xiaodong , Xiao Jianpeng , He Xiaohui , Liu Chang , Xu Xiaoyu , Viitala Tapani , Feng Jing , Zhang Hongbo
Published: January 2024

Ovarian cancer remains a significant health issue worldwide, often facing limitations in treatment due to side effects and drug resistance. Tumor cells typically undergo the “Warburg effect,” preferring glycolysis, which leads to their rapid growth and survival. Metformin, a widely used diabetes medication, targets 5' adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), reducing glycolysis and thereby slowing tumor growth. Additionally, forkhead box protein K2 (FOXK2), a transcription factor often found in excess in many tumors, promotes glycolysis and tumor development. Delivering metformin and FOXK2 siRNA directly to the tumor site in the body is challenging due to the metformin's poor water solubility and the fragile nature of siRNA. To address this, zirconium and 5,10,15,20‐tetra(4‐pyridyl)porphyrin nanoparticles loaded with FOXK2 siRNA, enveloped in cell membrane, co‐encapsulated with metformin in gelatin methacrylate microspheres (ZrTCP@siFOXK2@CM/Met@GelMA) hydrogel microspheres are developed for effective dual delivery. These microspheres facilitate targeted drug delivery, photothermal therapy with near‐infrared light, and interference with glucose metabolism. These results show that infrared light combined with metformin and FOXK2 siRNA successfully activates the AMPK pathway, reducing ovarian cancer growth. This method offers a promising new direction in treatment, utilizing the complex metabolic characteristics of ovarian cancer to achieve better results.
In‐situ compressive and tensile performances of high strength engineered cementitious composite at elevated temperatures
Authors: Rawat S. , Lee C. K. , Zhang Y. X.
Published: January 2024

The study provides novel insights on the compressive and tensile strength of high strength engineered cementitious composite (HSECC) at elevated temperatures under in‐situ testing condition. An optimized mix design was employed and cylinder and dogbone specimens were tested to study the compressive and tensile strength of HSECC at elevated temperature. The tested results under in‐situ test condition were compared with the residual state by exposing the specimens to temperature up to 600°C. It was found that specimens under in‐situ condition showed a drastic decrease in compressive strength (26.8%–34.5%) at 200°C and the performance was much inferior to that observed for residual state which showed only 12.2% decrease. This trend was consistent for both tensile and compression test results. After this, the in‐situ specimens underwent slight increase in the compressive strength with only around 25% decrease at 400°C and 14%–16% decrease at 600°C. However, the residual state specimens underwent continuous decrease in strength. Therefore, this study confirmed that for high strength cementitious composites exposed to elevated temperatures, the residual test results should not be considered as the lower limit and in‐situ testing results are essential for accurately predicting the behavior of cementitious composites. Thus, this research underscores the importance of conducting both in‐situ and residual state tests in the design of HSECC structural members.
Chemistry in Ukraine
Authors: Grygorenko Oleksandr O. , Lampeka Rostyslav D. , Chebanov Valentyn A. , Kovalenko Maksym V. , Wuttke Stefan
Published: January 2024

In this special issue, we highlight recent advances in chemical research by scientists in Ukraine, as well as by their compatriots and collaborators outside the country. Besides spotlighting their contributions, we see our task in fostering global partnerships and multi‐, inter‐, and trans‐disciplinary collaborations, including much‐needed co‐funded projects and initiatives. The three decades of the renewed Ukraine independence have seen rather limited integration of Ukrainian (chemical) science into global research communities.[1] At the same time, the recent surge of collaborative science initiatives between European Union (EU) and Ukraine echoes the unfolding steps towards Ukraine's full research participation to the Horizon Europe Program. This recently implemented step opens enormous possibilities for Ukrainian researchers to apply for diverse EU research grants. Moreover, a number of journal special issues and collections were launched to highlight Ukrainian chemistry (i. e., by Chemistry of Heterocyclic Compounds[2] and ChemistrySelect[3]). Other scientific initiatives include ‘European Chemistry School for Ukrainians’[4] and ‘Kharkiv Chemical Seminar’[5] as voluntary projects aimed at engaging Ukrainian scientists into European and international chemical research.
A study of 23 dairy cows with post‐partum uterine torsion
Authors: Kazama Kei , Fujita Shingo , Nishikawa Akitoyo , Onda Ken
Published: January 2024

Background

Uterine torsion in dairy cows generally occurs during gestation. However, some cows develop uterine torsion after calving, and the details of which are not known.

Objectives

The present study aimed to investigate the clinical signs, epidemiological characteristics and treatment methods of 23 cases of post‐partum uterine torsion in dairy cows.

Methods

A total 23 Holstein dairy cows diagnosed with post‐partum uterine torsion were investigated. The clinical signs and epidemiological information were reviewed from medical records. The diagnostic methods, findings and treatment method of each case were recorded.

Results and conclusions

Post‐partum uterine torsion is typically observed in dairy cows 9.6 ± 3.7 days after calving. That is, 21 out of 23 [91%] were multiparous and 8 out of 23 [34.8%] were characterised by multiple births. The retained placenta was observed in at least 20 out of 23 [87%], and a standing abnormality was observed in 18 out of 23 [78.3%]. The clinical signs observed in all cases included anorexia and accumulation of lochia and gas with a putrid odour in the uterus. In addition, eight and nine cases treated with the transrectal manual method and laparotomy, respectively, were cured. In conclusion, post‐partum uterine torsion in dairy cows developed around 10 days after calving, with anorexia and accumulation of lochia and gas with a putrid odour in the uterus. It has been suggested that torsion can be reconstructed using the transrectal manual method or laparotomy.
Depuis que le Streaming Existe?: Gaumont and French Cinema in the Streaming Era
Authors: Meir Christopher
Published: January 2024

Gaumont is the world’s oldest continually operating film studio, and this legacy is so important to the company that it brands its title cards with the slogan ‘Depuis que le cinéma existe’ (‘since cinema has existed’). In recent years, however, Gaumont has diversified into series production while also selling off its movie theatre holdings, all so the company could focus its strategies on producing for the newly emerging streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, while also trying to maintain its presence in French cinema. This chapter analyses the company’s strategic evolution since 2012—when it began diversifying into series—and examines what this shift has meant for Gaumont and French cinema more broadly as streaming services became the most important companies in the global film industry.
From ImpersoNation to ImPosture: (Sub)urban Fantasy in Fanny Herrero’s Dix pour cent and Drôle
Authors: Harrod Mary
Published: January 2024

Expanding on the Introduction’s conceptualisations of postnational screen fiction, this chapter examines two Netflix series, Dix pour cent/Call My Agent! and Drôle/Standing Up, to suggest that postnational French television exploits similar strategies of ImpersoNation (Elsaesser, European Cinema: Face to Face with Hollywood. Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press. Ebook, 2005; ‘ImpersoNations: National Cinema, Historical Imaginaries and New Cinema Europe.’ Mise au point 5. https://map.revues.org/1480, 2013) to those found in the cinema from which it partially descends. It further argues that at times the type of ImpersoNation in evidence in these audiovisual fictions can be productively dubbed ImPosture, since it articulates a fictionalised version of Frenchness for external consumption that fairly directly contravenes observable realities. Yet instead of seeing such a commercially embedded gesture merely in terms of cynical self-promotion, the author asserts that the potential to generate new psycho-social possibilities by widening legitimised representations of French identities emerges from reading for Frenchness as ImPosture.
An Alternative to Hollywood? EuropaCorp’s ‘Blockbusters’ and the Global Audience
Authors: Pillard Thomas
Published: January 2024

The big-budget entertainment productions conceived by EuropaCorp, in particular those for which Luc Besson is the project manager or wrote the screenplay, have distinguished themselves in recent years by a sometimes remarkable ability to export themselves outside national borders, as much as by the increasingly acute difficulties they have encountered in achieving their strategic objectives and seducing a globalised audience. This chapter will examine these particular types of ‘blockbusters’, from the point of view of the reception commentaries published on an international scale by internet users speaking in English on the IMDb website. In particular, it will return to the idea that these transnational prototypes can be seen as ‘alternatives’ to Hollywood cinema, based on the abundant sources available in the ‘user reviews’ section of the IMDb website.
Conceptualising Home in Migration: An Introduction
Authors: Fathi Mastoureh , Ní Laoire Caitríona
Published: January 2024

This Short Reader presents a pathway through the vast and rich social-scientific literature that exists on home and migration from various perspectives, doing so through an innovative theoretical lens that incorporates the concepts of intersectionality and ‘structural im/possibility’. This introductory chapter firstly outlines some of the key conceptual principles emerging from contemporary social-scientific literature on home and migration, and then goes on to present an intersectional and structural conceptual framework for reading migration-and-home scholarship, centred on the concept of structural im/possibilities of home-in-migration. The final part of the chapter presents some reflections by the authors on their own home-in-migration biographies and provides an overview of the structure of the book.
Gender and Home in Migration
Authors: Fathi Mastoureh , Ní Laoire Caitríona
Published: January 2024

Home is a space that is marked by gendered roles and identities. This chapter provides an overview of some key feminist thinking on home and how this is reflected and used in studies that focus on gender in migration studies. The chapter reflects on men and women’s home-making practices after migration, and the implications both for those who move onwards and those who stay put. In this chapter, while there is a focus on migrant women, a new line of thinking on domestic migrant masculinities is presented which discusses how varied gender roles in migration impact the space and politics of home for migrant families. Finally, the chapter reflects on how migrants’ images of future homes are entangled with gendered power relations of home.
Age and Home in Migration
Authors: Fathi Mastoureh , Ní Laoire Caitríona
Published: January 2024

Age, generation and life-course transitions are key considerations in the analysis of home and homing processes in migration. Drawing on the growing scholarship in the field, this chapter explores the ways in which practices and experiences of home in migration are inflected by age, generation and life-course transitions. It focuses specifically on home in migration in older age, young adulthood and childhood. Three key points are highlighted: first, the emotional and material aspects of home take on significance in different ways at different stages of the life-course and migrant journey. Second, feeling at home in migration is a constant process that is constantly worked at through childhood, youth and into older age. Third, age, generation and life-course are socio-spatial structures that intersect with gender, social class, race/ethnicity and residence status to variably open up and close off possibilities of feeling at home for migrants.
Conclusion
Authors: Fathi Mastoureh , Ní Laoire Caitríona
Published: January 2024

This concluding chapter highlights what marks a home from a non-home, arguing that this involves more than one element. Home is also bound up with social relations and material things that need to be considered within wider socio-political environments and politics and that shape what we call in this book ‘structural im/possibilities of home in migration’. This chapter synthesises the core the arguments presented in the book and argues that the emerging field of home and migration has potential for development in the future that is packed with yet unknown and unexplored possibilities. This short reader offers an opening into this expanding area of study.
Excellent long-term pain response and local control following postoperative radiotherapy in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Kaufmann Justus , Täubl Annika Ute , Nikolaidou Eirini , Rühle Alexander , Hopprich Anne , Wollschläger Daniel , Mayer Arnulf , Nicolay Nils Henrik , Schmidberger Heinz , Bostel Tilman
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Multiple myeloma is associated with osteolytic bone lesions, often requiring surgery of the spine and postoperative radiotherapy (RT). Although common, data for clinical and informed decision-making are sparse. In this monocentric retrospective study, we aim to report the outcome of patients who underwent spinal surgery and postoperative RT due to multiple myeloma.

Methods

A total of 54 patients with multiple myeloma who underwent prior spinal surgery and postoperative RT at our institution between 2009 and 2020 were analyzed. Spinal instability neoplastic score (SINS) and Bilsky score, posttherapeutic adverse events, clinical data, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. The primary endpoint of this study was overall survival (OS), secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), pain response, local control, and skeletal-related events (SRE).

Results

The 3‑ and 5‑year overall survival (OS) was 74.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 63.5–88.4%) and 58% (95% CI: 44.5–75.6%), respectively. Median survival was not reached and 75% survival was 34.3 months (95% CI: 28.7–95.4 months). Median follow-up was 63 months (95% CI: 49–94 months). The number of patients with good to adequate performance status (Karnofsky performance score [KPS] ≥ 70) significantly increased after surgery (p < 0.01). We observed no grade 3/4 toxicity and only 13 (24%) grade 1/2 adverse events. Two patients (4%) experienced SRE. Overall, 92% of patients reported reduced pain after radiotherapy, with 66% reporting complete pain response. There was no difference in pain response between patients with different Bilsky scores. Bisphosphonate therapy and lower Bilsky score at the start of RT were associated with improved OS in univariate analysis (all p < 0.05). Multivariate Cox regression confirmed a Bilsky score of 2 or 3 as an independent negative prognostic factor (HR 3.89; 95 CI 1.4–10.7; p < 0.01). We observed no in-field recurrences.

Conclusion

In this study, we were able to show that the current standard of RT after spinal surgery of osteolytic lesions is safe. In addition, we observed a very low rate of SRE (4%) and no in-field recurrences, demonstrating the local efficacy of RT in multiple myeloma patients. Higher Bilsky scores were associated with worse OS in multivariate analysis, but had no effect on pain response.
150 years ago: Schwartze’s 1873 mastoidectomy and its implementation over the following 2 years
Authors: Mudry Albert , Plontke Stefan K.
Published: January 2024

Background

In 1873, Hermann Schwartze and Adolf Eysell described a new surgical technique for treating mastoid disease using a mallet, chisels, and gouges of various sizes instead of trephines or drill instruments also called “modern mastoidectomy.” On the 150th jubilee of this landmark article, we pay tribute by studying the reception and implementation of mastoidectomy in the 2 years following its publication.

Methods

The commentaries published in the otological and medical literature between the second part of 1873 to the end of 1875 were studied with an emphasis on the three specialized otological journals and the otological textbooks that existed during this period.

Results and conclusion

The princeps paper Ueber die künstliche Eröffnung des Warzenfortsatzes (“On the artificial opening of the mastoid process”) by Hermann Schwartze and Adolf Eysell published in 1873 was rapidly disseminated in the medical literature for nearly 1 year, and then entered a phase of evaluation followed by a phase of extension and implementation, before finding its definitive place in the history of mastoid process surgery.
Evaluation der Gewaltopferambulanz des Instituts für Rechtsmedizin Greifswald durch die Betroffenen
Authors: Wudtke J. , Bockholdt B. , Fokuhl A. , Stobbe F. , Dokter M.
Published: January 2024

Nach über 12 Jahren Untersuchungserfahrung in der Gewaltopferambulanz des Instituts für Rechtsmedizin Greifswald entstand das Bedürfnis nach einer Bewertung des aus ärztlicher Sicht etablierten Untersuchungssettings durch die Betroffenen. Es wurden in einer freiwilligen, anonymisierten Studie die von den Betroffenen subjektiv wahrgenommenen Untersuchungsbedingungen anhand eines dafür entwickelten Fragebogens kategorisiert erfragt. Erfasst wurden neben den persönlichen Angaben (Lebensalter/Geschlecht) Analysekriterien wie die Gestaltung der Terminvergabe, die Wahl des Untersuchungsortes und die im Rahmen der Untersuchung empfundene fachliche und kommunikative Kompetenz des Untersuchers. Eingeschlossen wurden alle Betroffenen von Gewalt, die sich im Zeitraum vom 14.07.2021 bis 13.07.2022 vorstellten (n = 108). Die Bereitschaft hinsichtlich einer freiwilligen Teilnahme (onlinebasiert oder per Papierfragebogen) wurde erfragt. An der Studie nahmen 23 Personen (13 w., 9 m., 1 n. b.) teil, was einer Rücklaufquote von 21 % entspricht. Die Probanden befanden sich in 36 % im Alter von 46 bis 55 Jahren, ein weiterer Altersschwerpunkt lag mit 27 % im Bereich von 36 bis 45 Jahren. In der überwiegenden Anzahl der Fälle (69 %) wurde der Termin selbst vereinbart. Die Terminvereinbarung wurde von 77 % der Probanden als einfach eingestuft. Als Untersuchungsort wurde in 73 % der Fälle das Institut für Rechtsmedizin Greifswald angegeben. Bei außerhalb des Instituts stattgefundenen Untersuchungen gaben 36 % der Probanden an, dass keine Möglichkeit bestanden hätte, nach Greifswald zu kommen. Die rechtsmedizinische Untersuchung und auch das Einfühlungsvermögen des Untersuchers wurden in über 70 % der Fälle als ausgezeichnet bewertet. Eine erneute Vorstellung in der Opferambulanz wurde von 80 % der Probanden mit „eindeutig ja“ beantwortet. Die anhand der Studie erhobenen Daten zeigen, dass die rechtsmedizinische körperliche Untersuchung von den untersuchten Personen als ein wertvolles Element empfunden wurde. Die Opferambulanz stellt ein gutes Konzept dar, welches durch seine flexible Gestaltung der Terminvergabe und der Wahl des Untersuchungsortes den Bedürfnissen eines Flächenlandes und auch den Wünschen der Betroffenen gerecht wird.