bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity of prokaryotic microorganisms in alkaline saline soil of the Qarhan Salt Lake area in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Yaqiong , Bao Guoyuan
Published: March 2022

The composition of microbial communities varies considerably across ecological environments, particularly in extreme environments, where unique microorganisms are typically used as the indicators of environmental conditions. However, the ecological reasons for the differences in microbial communities remain largely unknown. Herein, we analyzed taxonomic and functional community profiles via high-throughput sequencing to determine the alkaline saline soil bacterial and archaeal communities in the Qarhan Salt Lake area in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The results showed that Betaproteobacteria (Proteobacteria) and Halobacteria (Euryarchaeota) were the most abundant in the soils of this area, which are common in high salinity environments. Accordingly, microbes that can adapt to local extremes typically have unique metabolic pathways and functions, such as chemoheterotrophy, aerobic chemoheterotrophy, nitrogen fixation, ureolysis, nitrate reduction, fermentation, dark hydrogen oxidation, and methanogenesis. Methanogenesis pathways include hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis, CO2 reduction with H2, and formate methanogenesis. Thus, prokaryotic microorganisms in high salinity environments are indispensable in nitrogen and carbon cycling via particular metabolic pathways.
The effect of a variable focal spot size on the contrast channels retrieved in edge-illumination X-ray phase contrast imaging
Authors: Astolfo A. , Buchanan I. , Partridge T. , Kallon G. K. , Hagen C. K. , Munro P. R. T. , Endrizzi M. , Bate D. , Olivo A.
Published: March 2022

Multi-modal X-ray imaging allows the extraction of phase and dark-field (or “Ultra-small Angle Scatter”) images alongside conventional attenuation ones. Recently, scan-based systems using conventional sources that can simultaneously output the above three images on relatively large-size objects have been developed by various groups. One limitation is the need for some degree of spatial coherence, achieved either through the use of microfocal sources, or by placing an absorption grating in front of an extended source. Both these solutions limit the amount of flux available for imaging, with the latter also leading to a more complex setup with additional alignment requirements. Edge-illumination partly overcomes this as it was proven to work with focal spots of up to 100 micron. While high-flux, 100 micron focal spot sources do exist, their comparatively large footprint and high cost can be obstacles to widespread translation. A simple solution consists in placing a single slit in front of a large focal spot source. We used a tunable slit to study the system performance at various effective focal spot sizes, by extracting transmission, phase and dark-field images of the same specimens for a range of slit widths. We show that consistent, repeatable results are obtained for varying X-ray statistics and effective focal spot sizes. As the slit width is increased, the expected reduction in the raw differential phase peaks is observed, compensated for in the retrieval process by a broadened sensitivity function. This leads to the same values being correctly retrieved, but with a slightly larger error bar i.e. a reduction in phase sensitivity. Concurrently, a slight increase in the dark-field signal is also observed.
The role of the AC component in human perception of AC–DC hybrid electric fields
Authors: Jankowiak Kathrin , Kaifie Andrea , Krampert Thomas , Kraus Thomas , Kursawe Michael
Published: March 2022

Electric energy is essential to today’s society. To cope with global higher demand while minimizing land use, efficient high voltage direct current (HVDC) power lines are planned to be mounted on existing alternating current (AC) structures leading to electric fields (EFs) from both AC and DC transmission lines in hybrid configurations. Due to the close proximity to residential areas, the investigation of human hybrid EF perception and underlying mechanisms will be useful to project permitting. To specify the influence of the AC component on the whole-body detection thresholds of hybrid EFs and to explore the lower bound of human hybrid EF perception, 51 participants with an EF detection ability above average were exposed in a double-blind laboratory study. A psychophysical method based on the signal detection theory was used. Very low EF strength combinations, e.g. 1 kV/m AC combined with 1 kV/m DC, were reliably perceived by at least one participant. Detection thresholds were significantly lower with increased AC EF strengths, underlining the key role of the AC component in the human perception of hybrid EFs. Findings will contribute to the assessment of public reaction to the perception of EFs around hybrid overhead power lines and to their optimal designs.
Reduced ech-6 expression attenuates fat-induced lifespan shortening in C. elegans
Authors: Liu Yasmine J. , Gao Arwen W. , Smith Reuben L. , Janssens Georges E. , Panneman Daan M. , Jongejan Aldo , van Weeghel Michel , Vaz Frédéric M. , Silvestrini Melissa J. , Lapierre Louis R. , MacInnes Alyson W. , Houtkooper Riekelt H.
Published: March 2022

Deregulated energy homeostasis represents a hallmark of aging and results from complex gene-by-environment interactions. Here, we discovered that reducing the expression of the gene ech-6 encoding enoyl-CoA hydratase remitted fat diet-induced deleterious effects on lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans, while a basal expression of ech-6 was important for survival under normal dietary conditions. Lipidomics revealed that supplementation of fat in ech-6-silenced worms had marginal effects on lipid profiles, suggesting an alternative fat utilization for energy production. Transcriptomics further suggest a causal relation between the lysosomal pathway, energy production, and the longevity effect conferred by the interaction between ech-6 and fat diets. Indeed, enhancing energy production from endogenous fat by overexpressing lysosomal lipase lipl-4 recapitulated the lifespan effects of fat diets on ech-6-silenced worms. Collectively, these results suggest that the gene ech-6 is potential modulator of metabolic flexibility and may be a target for promoting metabolic health and longevity.
The role of the double layer for the pseudocapacitance of the hydrogen adsorption on platinum
Authors: Schalenbach Maximilian , Durmus Y. Emre , Tempel Hermann , Kungl Hans , Eichel Rüdiger-A.
Published: March 2022

Pseudocapacitances such as the hydrogen adsorption on platinum (HAoPt) are associated with faradaic chemical processes that appear as capacitive in their potentiodynamic response, which was reported to result from the kinetics of adsorption processes. This study discusses an alternative interpretation of the partly capacitive response of the HAoPt that is based on the proton transport of ad- or desorbed hydrogen in the double layer. Potentiodynamic perturbations of equilibrated surface states of the HAoPt lead to typical double layer responses with the characteristic resistive–capacitive relaxations that overshadow the fast adsorption kinetics. A potential-dependent double layer representation by a dynamic transmission line model incorporates the HAoPt in terms of capacitive contributions and can computationally reconstruct the charge exchanged in full range cyclic voltammetry data. The coupling of charge transfer with double layer dynamics displays a novel physicochemical theory to explain the phenomenon of pseudocapacitance and the mechanisms in thereon based supercapacitors.
The unresolved definition of the pressure-viscosity coefficient
Authors: Bair Scott
Published: March 2022

In the classical approach to elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) a single parameter, the pressure-viscosity coefficient, quantifies the isothermal pressure dependence of the viscosity for use in prediction of film thickness. Many definitions are in current use. Progress toward a successful definition of this property has been hampered by the refusal of those working in classical EHL to acknowledge the existence of accurate measurements of the piezoviscous effect that have existed for nearly a century. The Hamrock and Dowson pressure-viscosity coefficient at high temperature requires knowledge of the piezoviscous response at pressures which exceed the inlet pressure and may exceed the Hertz pressure. The definition of pressure-viscosity coefficient and the assumed equation of state must limit the use of the classical formulas, including Hamrock and Dowson, to liquids with high Newtonian limit and to low temperature. Given that this problem has existed for at least fifty years without resolution, it is reasonable to conclude that there is no definition of pressure-viscosity coefficient that will quantify the piezoviscous response for an analytical calculation of EHL film thickness at temperatures above ambient.
Evaluation of parameters for fetal behavioural state classification
Authors: Semeia Lorenzo , Sippel Katrin , Moser Julia , Preissl Hubert
Published: March 2022

Fetal behavioural states (fBS) describe periods of fetal wakefulness and sleep and are commonly defined by features such as body and eye movements and heart rate. Automatic state detection through algorithms relies on different parameters and thresholds derived from both the heart rate variability (HRV) and the actogram, which are highly dependent on the specific datasets and are prone to artefacts. Furthermore, the development of the fetal states is dynamic over the gestational period and the evaluation usually only separated into early and late gestation (before and after 32 weeks). In the current work, fBS detection was consistent between the classification algorithm and visual inspection in 87 fetal magnetocardiographic data segments between 27 and 39 weeks of gestational age. To identify how automated fBS detection could be improved, we first identified commonly used parameters for fBS classification in both the HRV and the actogram, and investigated their distribution across the different fBS. Then, we calculated a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve to determine the performance of each parameter in the fBS classification. Finally, we investigated the development of parameters over gestation through linear regression. As a result, the parameters derived from the HRV have a higher classification accuracy compared to those derived from the body movement as defined by the actogram. However, the overlapping distributions of several parameters across states limit a clear separation of states based on these parameters. The changes over gestation of the HRV parameters reflect the maturation of the fetal autonomic nervous system. Given the higher classification accuracy of the HRV in comparison to the actogram, we suggest to focus further research on the HRV. Furthermore, we propose to develop probabilistic fBS classification approaches to improve classification in less prototypical datasets.
The hand grip force test as a measure of physical function in women with fibromyalgia
Authors: Cigarán-Méndez Margarita , Úbeda-D’Ocasar Edurne , Arias-Buría José Luis , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Gallego-Sendarrubias Gracia María , Valera-Calero Juan Antonio
Published: March 2022

Previous studies have reported the presence of muscle weakness in women with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) which is considered a risk factor for developing earlier disability and dependence during activities of daily life (ADL). We aimed to assess the relationship between hand grip force with sociodemographic, clinical, disease-specific, cognitive, and physical function variables in women with FMS. One hundred twenty-six women with FMS completed demographic (age, gender, height, weight, body mass index), pain-related (pain history, pain intensity at rest and during ADL), disease-specific severity (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire -FIQ-S-, Fibromyalgia Health Assessment Questionnaire -FHAQ-, EuroQol-5D, Pain Catastrophizing Scale -PCS-, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index-PSQI-, Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire -PVAQ-, and Central Sensitization Inventory -CSI-), psychological (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, TKS-11; Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire, PVAQ; Pain Catastrophizing Scale, PCS), and physical function (hand grip force, and Timed Up and Go Test, TUG). Hand grip force was associated with height (r = −0.273), BMI (r = 0.265), worst pain at rest (r = −0.228), pain during ADL (r = −0.244), TUG (r = −0.406), FHAQ (r = −0.386), EuroQol-5D (r = 0.353), CSI (r = −0.321) and PSQI (r = −0.250). The stepwise regression analysis revealed that 34.4% of hand grip force was explained by weight (6.4%), TUG (22.2%), and FHAQ (5.8%) variables. This study found that hand grip force is associated with physical function indicators, but not with fear-avoidance behaviors nor pain-related features of FMS. Hand grip force could be considered as an easy tool for identifying the risk of fall and poorer physical health status.
Focusing on cognitive potential as the bright side of mental atypicality
Authors: Colzato Lorenza S. , Beste Christian , Hommel Bernhard
Published: March 2022

Standard accounts of mental health are based on a “deficit view” solely focusing on cognitive impairments associated with psychiatric conditions. Based on the principle of neural competition, we suggest an alternative. Rather than focusing on deficits, we should focus on the cognitive potential that selective dysfunctions might bring with them. Our approach is based on two steps: the identification of the potential (i.e., of neural systems that might have benefited from reduced competition) and the development of corresponding training methods, using the testing-the-limits approach. Counterintuitively, we suggest to train not only the impaired function but on the function that might have benefitted or that may benefit from the lesser neural competition of the dysfunctional system.
Long-term relative survival in uveal melanoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stålhammar Gustav , Herrspiegel Christina
Published: March 2022

Background

A large proportion of patients with uveal melanoma develop metastases and succumb to their disease. Reports on the size of this proportion vary considerably.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science and Embase were searched for articles published after 1980. Studies with ≥100 patients reporting ≥five-year relative survival rates were included. Studies solely reporting Kaplan-Meier estimates and cumulative incidences were not considered, due to risk for competing risk bias and classification errors. A meta-analysis was performed using random-effects and weighted averages models, as well as a combined estimate based on curve fitting.

Results

Nine studies and a total of 18 495 patients are included. Overall, the risk of selective reporting bias is low. Relative survival rates vary across the population of studies (I2 48 to 97% and Qp < 0.00001 to 0.15), likely due to differences in baseline characteristics and the large number of patients included (τ2 < 0.02). The 30-year relative survival rates follow a cubic curve that is well fitted to data from the random-effects inverse-variance and weighted average models (R2 = 0.95, p = 7.19E−7). The estimated five, ten, 15, 20, 25 and 30-year relative survival rates are 79, 66, 60, 60, 62 and 67%, respectively.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that about two in five of all patients with uveal melanoma ultimately succumb to their disease. This indicates a slightly better prognosis than what is often assumed, and that patients surviving 20 years or longer may have a survival advantage to individuals of the same sex and age from the general population.
Development of a NanoBRET assay to validate inhibitors of Sirt2-mediated lysine deacetylation and defatty-acylation that block prostate cancer cell migration
Authors: Vogelmann A. , Schiedel M. , Wössner N. , Merz A. , Herp D. , Hammelmann S. , Colcerasa A. , Komaniecki G. , Hong JY. , Sum M. , Metzger E. , Neuwirt E. , Zhang L. , Einsle O. , Groß O. , Schüle R. , Lin H. , Sippl W. , Jung M.
Published: March 2022

Sirt2 inhibitors that show simultaneous inhibition of Sirt2 deacetylase and defatty-acylase activity block prostate cancer cell migration and their target engagement is shown by a newly developed NanoBRET assay.
The strong interaction of actinyl ions with fullerenol driven by multiple hydrogen bonds
Authors: Du Jiguang , Jiang Gang
Published: March 2022

The adsorption structures and bondings of five types of actinyl ion complexes on the C60(OH)24 fullerenol surface were investigated with all-electron DFT calculations.
Phenylpropanoids and neolignans isolated from Myristica fragrans enhance glucose uptake in myotubes
Authors: Yoshioka Yasukiyo , Kono Ryunoshin , Kuse Masaki , Yamashita Yoko , Ashida Hitoshi
Published: March 2022

Nutmeg is a promising functional food to prevent post-prandial hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus by promoting glucose uptake in muscle.
Wafer-scale pulsed laser deposition of ITO for solar cells: reduced damage vs. interfacial resistance
Authors: Smirnov Yury , Repecaud Pierre-Alexis , Tutsch Leonard , Florea Ileana , Zanoni Kassio P.S. , Paliwal Abhyuday , Bolink Henk J. , i Cabarrocas Pere Roca , Bivour Martin , Morales-Masis Monica
Published: March 2022

Halide perovskite and silicon heterojunction solar cells present sensitive contact layers prone to damage during ITO deposition. We study the effect of ITO pulsed laser deposition pressure on damage mitigation and improved solar cell performance.
Macrophages secrete murinoglobulin-1 and galectin-3 to regulate neutrophil degranulation after myocardial infarction
Authors: Chalise Upendra , Daseke Michael J. , Kalusche William J. , Konfrst Shelby R. , Rodriguez-Paar Jocelyn R. , Flynn Elizabeth R. , Cook Leah M. , Becirovic-Agic Mediha , Lindsey Merry L.
Published: March 2022

Macrophages secrete murinoglobulin-1 to inhibit and galectin-3 to promote neutrophil degranulation to balance protease release and prevent excessive wall thinning.
Analysis method development and health risk assessment of pesticide and heavy metal residues in Dendrobium Candidum
Authors: Zhang Zihan , Song Jiajin , Zhang Houpu , Zheng Zhiruo , Li Tongxin , Wu Shenggan , He Bowei , Mao Bizeng , Yu Yunlong , Fang Hua
Published: March 2022

Residues of 24 pesticides and 8 heavy metals in Dendrobium candidum were determinated using both the modified QuEChERS-HPLC(GC)-MS/MS and microwave digestion-ICP-MS analysis methods, and their health risk was acceptable.
Non-photochromic solar energy storage in carbon nitride surpassing blue radicals for hydrogen production
Authors: Wu Pei-Shan , Lin Tzu-Jen , Hou Sheng-Shu , Chen Chih-Chia , Tsai Dai-Ling , Huang Kuan-Hsiang , Wu Jih-Jen
Published: March 2022

This study demonstrates nonphotochromic solar energy storage in the in-plan short-range-ordered KPHI, which photoelectron storage and catalytic activity surpass the blue radicals derived from conventional crystalline KPHIs.
Enantioselective direct vinylogous Michael addition for constructing enantioenriched γ,γ-dialkyl substituted butyrolactams and octahydroindoles
Authors: Yan Jiahang , Zhang Wenting , He Qiaoqiao , Hou Jun , Zeng Hongxin , Wei Hongbo , Xie Weiqing
Published: March 2022

A nickel(ii)/chiral N,N′-dioxide catalyzed asymmetric direct vinylogous Michael addition of unsaturated butyrolactams enables synthesizing enantioenriched γ,γ-dialkyl substituted butyrolactams and octahydroindoles.
A cucurbit[6]uril-carbon dot system: a potentially new bioimaging agent
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Tian Yan , Liu Ming , Hong-Meng Tie , Li Chun-Rong , Zeng Xi , Xiao Xin , Redshaw Carl
Published: March 2022

We report novel cucurbit[6]uril (Q[6])/carbon quantum dots (CQDs) prepared by solvothermal and nitrogen doped methods.
The corrosion behavior of 304 stainless steel in NaNO3–NaCl–NaF molten salt and vapor
Authors: Lai Xing , Yin Huiqin , Li Ping , Liu Bingxin , Gao Li , Tang Zhongfeng
Published: March 2022

Surface micro-morphology of 304 SS before corrosion (a), after corrosion in molten NaNO3–NaCl–NaF salt (b) and molten NaNO3–NaCl–NaF vapor (c). (Local enlarged region of A1 (b-1), A2 (c-1) and A3 (c-2)).
Investigation of optical and electrical properties of the semiconducting α-KZnPO4 compound
Authors: Chakchouk N. , Brahim Kh. Ben , Gzaiel M. Ben , Oueslati A.
Published: March 2022

We used the solid state method to synthesize the α-KZnPO4 compound.
Metal–organic framework bearing new viologen ligand for ammonia and Cr2O72− sensing
Authors: Zhu Baili , Jin Yunpeng , Chu Jingying , Zuo Minghui , Cui Shuxin
Published: March 2022

Three MOFs based on different metal salts were synthesized, and metal salts were found to play a key role in regulating the performance of MOFs.
Torsional strain inversed chemoselectivity in a Pd-catalyzed atroposelective carbonylation reaction of dibenzothiophenium
Authors: Zhang Qiuchi , Xue Xiaoping , Hong Biqiong , Gu Zhenhua
Published: March 2022

Torsional strain inversed chemoselectivity: from bond a to bond b.
Infiltration of nickel and copper catalysts into a GDC backbone assisted by supercritical CO2 for efficient SOFC anodes
Authors: Guesnet L. , Aubert G. , Hubert S. , Geffroy P. M. , Aymonier C. , Bassat J. M.
Published: March 2022

This study describes an original method developed for the shaping of composite solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) anodes including either nickel or copper as metal.
Increasing unsaturated Se number and facilitating atomic hydrogen adsorption of WSe2+x nanodots for improving photocatalytic H2 production of TiO2
Authors: Gao Duoduo , Zhong Wei , Wang Xuefei , Chen Feng , Yu Huogen
Published: March 2022

A versatile tactic of unsaturated selenium-enrichment regulation is developed, which can not only increase the active Se number, but also reinforce the weak Se–Hads bonds via constructing electron-poor Se(2−δ)− active sites.
Integrated analysis of photovoltaic system externalities in Brazil: public health expenditures, energy quality, architectural aspects and real estate value
Authors: Castro Pedro Henrique Gonçalves Rigueira Pinheiro , Oliveira Filho Delly , Moraes Toledo Olga , Carlo Joyce Correna , Diniz Antônia Sônia Alves Cardoso
Published: March 2022

Photovoltaic solar energy systems is a renewable source that has raised great worldwide interest in recent decades. However, in Brazil still, the cost of photovoltaic (PV) systems is still high, and the current public policies are incipient. From 2014 to 2019, an average growth of 203% per year was observed in the installed PV power systems in Brazil. Such performance can also be justified by a greater understanding of externalities, i.e., external positive and negative impacts inherent to the generation of electric energy. The objective is to understand the economic effects of photovoltaic externalities from different perspectives. The following externalities were studied: air pollution; energy quality; construction element; thermal load and real estate valuation, and all of them were analyzed for the Brazilian scenario. The results indicated that the externality of air pollution, which has impacts on health, estimated from the society perspective, could be worth, at least, 4.12% of the price of the energy generated by PV systems. The losses avoided and the voltage profile, energy quality parameters, may account to 12.61% of the electricity price for utilities, and from the consumer perspective, the externality real estate value may be around 79.44% of the price of the electricity generated by photovoltaic systems. The results of this study indicate that the externalities were, for the most part, positive for PV electric energy generating systems. Thus, considering externalities, it is intended to further understand their relationship with the expansion of the distributed generation of electric energy with PV systems in Brazil.
Remarks on component factors in graphs
Authors: Dai Guowei
Published: March 2022

For a family of connected graphs ℱ, a spanning subgraph H of a graph G is called an ℱ-factor of G if its each component is isomorphic to an element of ℱ. In particular, H is called an Sk-factor of G if ℱ = {K1,1, K1,2,…,K1,k}, where integer k ≥ 2; H is called a P≥3-factor of G if every component in ℱ is a path of order at least three. As an extension of Sk-factors, the induced star-factor (i.e., ISk-factor) is a spanning subgraph each component of which is an induced subgraph isomorphic to some graph in ℱ = {K1,1, K1,2,…,K1,k}. In this paper, we firstly prove that a graph G has an Sk-factor if and only if its isolated toughness I(G) ≥ 1/k. Secondly, we prove that a planar graphs G has an S2-factors if its minimum degree δ(G) ≥ 3. Thirdly, we give two sufficient conditions for graphs with ISk-factors by toughness and minimum degree, respectively. Additionally, we obtain three special classes of graphs admitting P≥3-factors.
Robotik – was geht in der Chirurgie?
Authors: Hillebrandt Karl H. , Schmelzle Moritz , Sauer Igor M. , Pratschke Johann
Published: March 2022

Die roboterassistierte Chirurgie hat sich in den letzten Jahren deutlich weiterentwickelt und wurde in immer mehr Teilbereichen der Chirurgie als fester Bestandteil des operativen Spektrums
implementiert. Dieser Beitrag legt den aktuellen Stand der roboterassistierten Chirurgie in Bereichen der Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Thoraxchirurgie unter Berücksichtigung der aktuellen
Literatur dar.
Ambulanter Lungensport und körperliches Training bei Patienten mit Atemwegs- und Lungenkrankheiten
Authors: Worth Heinrich
Published: March 2022

UmderzuseltengenutztenBehandlungsoption„Bewegungstherapie“beiPatientenmitchronischenLungenkrankheiteneinebessereNutzungundeinegrößereVerbreitungzu ermöglichen, wurden von einer ExpertengruppeausSportwissenschaftlern,SporttherapeutenundPneumologenEmpfehlungenzurDurchführungvonambulantem,wohnortnahemLungensportinGruppenverfasst.DiepositivenEffektevonSportundkörperlichemTrainingbeiAsthma,COPD,interstitiellenLungenkrankheiten,Mukoviszidose,LungenkarzinomundpulmonalerHypertoniewerdendargestellt.UnterBerücksichtigungdergesetzlichenGrundlagenwerdendienotwendigenVoraussetzungenderPatientenfürdieTeilnahmeamambulantenLungensport,denAufbauvonÜbungseinheitensowiedieÜberwachungderTeilnehmerdurchspeziellausgebildeteÜbungsleiterinAbhängigkeitvonSchwereundArtderLungenkrankheitdargestellt.Hinweise fürdenAufbau,dieOrganisationunddieKostenerstattungvonLungensportgruppensollendieVerbreitung des ambulanten Lungensports fördern. SchließlichwirdauchaufSicherheitsaspektederteilnehmendenPatientenunterEinschlussdesInfektionsrisikosmitSARS-CoV-2 eingegangen.
Letter to the Editor on: “The Effects of Physical Exercise on
Tumor Vasculature: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.”
Authors: Seet-Lee C. , Morahan H. , Yee J. , Edwards KM.
Published: March 2022

Dear Editor,

We read with interest the recent article “The Effects of Physical Exercise on
Tumor Vasculature: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis” 1 and after careful appraisal and consideration we
feel that some aspects of the data and analysis warrant further review. The study
reported some promising results, namely that both chronic and acute exercise appear
to improve intratumoral vascularisation in animal models. This is an important
finding given increased vascularisation through tumor modulation may have the
potential to improve chemotherapy delivery and efficacy 2. However, after conducting further investigations, we query several
details in the data extraction and analysis decision-making that we believe impact
the conclusions of this article.
Der Ablauf der Tabakentwöhnung
Authors: Grebe Wolfgang , Grebe Alexander
Published: March 2022

Immer mehr Menschen in Deutschland sind bereit, ihren Tabakkonsum zu reduzieren. Diese Chancen gilt es, in der täglichen Beratung der Patienten zu nutzen. Die Autoren stellen ihr Vorgehen und ihre Patientenschulung vor. Sie bieten auch Seminare zur Tabakentwöhnung für Ärzte als Kursleiter an. Der zertifizierte Kurs dient zum Erwerb des Tätigkeitsschwerpunktes gem. § 27 (4-3) der Berufsordnung.
Electrical Status Epilepticus in Slow Wave Sleep: Prospective Case Study of a Cortical Hearing Impairment
Authors: Fowler Cynthia G. , Kile Jack E. , Hecox Kurt E.
Published: March 2022

The development of a central hearing impairment is described in a young girl with risk factors for hearing impairment that included mosaic Down syndrome, leukemia, and chemotherapy. This case is unusual in the prospective regularity with which hearing was assessed from birth. The diagnosis is electrical status epilepticus in slow wave sleep, a rare childhood disorder, which was associated with lack of responsiveness to auditory signals, regression of emerging speech and language and other cognitive skills, and abnormal electroencephalographic (EEG) activity in both hemispheres. Treatment of the disorder with anticonvulsant medications and steroids has ameliorated the condition by suppressing the abnormal EEG activity and allowing substantial improvements in cognitive and social skills, although communication skills are improving more slowly.

Abbreviations: ABR = auditory brainstem response, CPA = conditioned play audiometry, CSWS = continuous spikes and waves during slow wave sleep, EEG = electroencephalography, ESES = electrical status epilepticus of slow wave sleep, LKS = Landau-Kleffner syndrome, MRI = magnetic resonance imaging, MRL = minimal response level, REM = rapid eye movement, TEOAEs = transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, VRA = visual reinforcement audiometry
Paradoxes of Inclusion: Adverse Effects of Inclusive Interventions in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebru Kebede Manjur , Rammelt Crelis , Leung Maggi
Published: March 2022

The involvement of smallholders in various inclusive business models (IBMs) is being widely promoted in Ethiopia. The inclusion, exclusion and distribution effects of IBMs must be better understood, however, in order to make them more impactful. This study, which was carried out in three districts in northern Ethiopia, employed a mixed methods approach. Our results show that inclusion and exclusion are both complex and multidimensional. A focus on transaction costs, productive resource endowments and chain governance is crucial for enhancing smallholders’ inclusion. Our results further indicate that income obtained from participation in IBMs is unequally distributed. The benefits of IBMs vary according to the underlying position of the smallholder. Hence, inclusive development interventions should acknowledge the various positions of smallholders and consider how their positions shape social relations locally. The paper thus reveals the various dimensions, contradictory tendencies, hidden costs and side effects of IBMs.
Shock characteristics evolution of detonation waves forward impacting on the solid wall
Authors: Hou Ziwei , Huang Xiaolong , Li Ning , Weng Chunsheng
Published: March 2022

The forward reflection of detonation waves on the solid wall will lead to a high pressure rise. The research systematically introduced the theoretical, numerical, and experimental exploration on the shock propagation characteristics of detonation waves forward impacting on a solid wall in the present work. The one-dimensional shock theory was carried out to solve the pressure rise ratio in this process. The exact solution and its variation law of a positive increase with filling pressure were expressed. One-dimensional simulations based on the space-time conservation element and solution element method were utilized to reveal the pressure decrease and velocity increase laws for the reflected shock wave. The blockage, oscillation, and attenuation phenomena of detonation waves and reflected shock waves under the effect of the tube–wall reflection were demonstrated in two-dimensional works. Experimental results from the detonation tube pressure test system showed a larger amplitude and duration of the reflected shock wave than the detonation wave. Pressure evolution and the formation of pressure plateaus were consistent with the simulation results. In addition, the time required for the pressure plateaus to decay to 0.5 times the Chapman-Jouget (C–J) detonation pressure is relatively constant under different filling conditions.
Fabrication and characterization of variable-focus liquid lens based on coil
Authors: Chen Tao , Ding Tianxin , Sun Jingyi , Chen Yue , Zheng Peitao , Chen Qirui , Liang Zhongcheng , Kong Meimei , Deng Lingling
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a coil-based liquid lens (CLL) with a mature and simple fabrication process. A tunable focal length is achieved by changing the liquid–liquid interface curvature using electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD). The lens cavity is a coil wound or stacked by a particular structure named EWOD wire, which is made by coating a soft insulating dielectric layer on a flexible conductive core. As a result, requirements for different lens designs can be achieved, and coating an insulating dielectric layer in complex cavities is not required. The optical performance of the CLL is measured with a clear aperture of 8 mm, which shows that the tunable range for the focal length is (−∞, −35 mm] ∪ [78 mm, +∞) at a voltage of 0–235 V, and the response time is less than 40 ms.
Phase change behavior improvement of Sb2Te3 films by Si doping: Raman scattering evidence at elevated temperatures
Authors: Guo Shuang , Wang Yunfeng , Zhang Xiaolong , Wang Bao , Hu Zhigao
Published: March 2022

The dynamic crystallization process of silicon (Si) doped Sb2Te3 (SST) films as a function of temperature (210–620 K) and Si concentration (0%–12%) has been investigated by temperature dependent Raman scattering. Based upon the evolution of original Raman spectra and surface morphologies with increasing temperature for the samples, it can be concluded that the temperature ranges for intermediate transition states are estimated to be 160, 120, and 80 K, corresponding to SST7%, SST9%, and SST12% films, respectively. This phenomenon can also be summarized by the thermal evolution of the proportion of the rhombohedral phase derived from Raman phonon modes. It illustrates that Si introduction can suppress the crystallization of amorphous films, increase the crystallization temperature, and accelerate the crystallization process of the intermediate transition state. The phase change behavior improvement by Si doping is of great significance for further study on the amorphous thermal stability and endurance of SST-based data storage devices from the optical perspective.
Dipolar supersolids: Solid and superfluid at the same time
Authors: Langen Tim
Published: March 2022

Ultracold atomic gases with the right balance of interactions enter a phase that demonstrates a superposition of seemingly opposing properties.
Cross-pollination and pollen storage to assist conservation of Metrosideros bartlettii (Myrtaceae), a critically endangered tree from Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: van der Walt Karin , Alderton-Moss Jennifer , Lehnebach Carlos A.
Published: March 2022

Context Metrosideros bartlettii is one of the most threatened trees in New Zealand and with less than 14 individuals spread across three populations, the species is at high risk of extinction. Despite reproductive failure being identified as one of the factors contributing to population decline, little is known about its pollination biology. Aim The current study aimed to gain knowledge of the reproductive biology of M. bartlettii by using trees in cultivation of which origin is known. Methods We tested the effect of self-pollination, cross-pollination and hybridisation treatments on reproductive output. In addition, the viability of fresh pollen was determined for each tree and the impact of desiccation and storage temperature (5°C, −18°C and −196°C) on pollen viability assessed. Key results Metrosideros bartlettii was found to be highly self-incompatible with seed formed via autonomous self-pollination having low viability. Hybridisation with Metrosideros excelsa, another native species commonly found in cultivation, produced viable seeds, but seedlings failed to survive. Pollen viability differed significantly among trees, and pollen stored at −18°C and −196°C retained viability after 6 months. Conclusion Metrosideros bartlettii is self-incompatible and cross-pollination is required to increase seed production and supplement wild populations. Implications Trees in cultivation provide a valuable tool for the conservation of M. bartlettii. However, cross-pollination is essential to prevent hybridisation and ensure genetically robust seed. Long-term storage of pollen at the temperatures determined here will help to overcome challenges in cross-pollination of trees that are spatially and geographically isolated.
Effect of layer sliding on the interfacial electronic properties of intercalated silicene/indium selenide van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Yousaf Masood , Younis M W , Jbara Ahmed S , Junaid Iqbal Khan M , Murtaza G , Saeed M A
Published: March 2022

Methods capable of tuning the properties of van der Waals (vdW) layered materials in a controlled and reversible manner are highly desirable. Interfacial electronic properties of two-dimensional vdW heterostructure consisting of silicene and indium selenide (InSe) have been calculated using density functional theory-based computational code. Furthermore, in order to vary the aforementioned properties, silicene is slid over a InSe layer in the presence of Li intercalation. On intercalation of the heterostructure, the buckling parameter associated with the corrugation of silicene decreases from 0.44 Å to 0.36 Å, whereas the InSe structure remains unaffected. Potential energy scans reveal a significant increase in the sliding energy barrier for the case of intercalated heterostructure as compared with the unintercalated heterostructure. The sliding of the silicene encounters the maximum energy barrier of 0.14 eV. Anisotropic analysis shows the noteworthy differences between calculated in-plane and out-of-plane part of dielectric function. A variation of the planar average charge density difference, dipole charge transfer and dipole moment have been discussed to elucidate the usability spectrum of the heterostructure. The employed approach based on intercalation and layer sliding can be effectively utilized for obtaining next-generation multifunctional devices.
Characterization of small active detectors for electronic brachytherapy dosimetry
Authors: Garcia Yip F. , Schneider T. , Reginatto M. , Behrens R. , Buermann L. , Grote F.
Published: March 2022

Three active detectors, Exradin A26 chamber, IBA RAZOR Nano
chamber, and PTW 60019 microDiamond, were characterized for their
use in electronic BrachyTherapy (eBT) dosimetry. The detectors were
calibrated in terms of air kerma using the ISO “N” (narrow) and
“TW” (therapy) X-rays series from 7.5 kV to 100 kV. The responses
to mono-energetic photons and their uncertainties were determined
with Bayesian parameter estimation, assuming a model that
incorporated smoothness via a spline function. The response
functions obtained this way are consistent with 18 calibration
qualities simultaneously. This approach improves on the traditional
procedure of associating the response to the mean energy of the
corresponding spectra. The energy responses (with uncertainties)
were obtained in 0.25 keV energy steps from 6 keV to
70 keV. With differences in magnitude due to their sizes and the
nature of their active volumes, the energy responses of the 3
detectors follow a similar relative behaviour. Even when the
response is far from flat at low energies, i.e. below about
20 keV, the determination of reliable energy dependence curves
enables the use of these detectors for dosimetry in the vicinity of
eBT units. The angular dependence of the three detectors with
respect to beam incidence was also measured in air in a 180°
range in steps of 10° using the Zeiss INTRABEAM system (50
kV). For both energy and angular response characterization, the
detectors axis were aligned in parallel with the beam axis (end-on),
since this is the expected orientation in further measurements of
absorbed dose distribution in water around eBT sources at PTB. This
work is an effort to provide traceability for detectors and
measurement procedures for the determination of 3D dose
distributions as part of the ongoing European EMPIR project
“Primary standards and traceable measurement methods for X-ray
emitting electronic brachytherapy devices” (PRISM-eBT)”.
Optimisation of a protocol for detection and management of post-parathyroidectomy hypocalcaemia
Authors: Lau Joshua
Published: March 2022

Background

Hypocalcaemia is the most common complication after parathyroid surgery. The aim of this project was to evaluate effectiveness of the currently used departmental protocol in detecting and managing patients with post-parathyroidectomy hypocalcaemia.

Methods

All consecutive patients who underwent first-time parathyroidectomy (without concomitant thyroidectomy) for primary hyperparathyroidism in a UK tertiary centre between October 2017 to March 2019 were included. Data on demographics, perioperative biochemistry, adherence to current protocol (treatment if PTH less than 1.6pmol/L or adj. calcium less than 2.1mmol/L day 1 post-op) and short-term clinical outcomes were collected and analysed.

Results

Of 189 patients, 75% were female. The median (inter-quartile range) age was 59 (50–70) years. 181 (96%) were cured. Ninety-eight bilateral neck exploration (BNE) and 91 targeted parathyroidectomy/ unilateral neck exploration (TP/UNE) were done. The rate of adherence to protocol was 88%. 4 patients (2%) reattended hospital within 30 days due to hypocalcaemia; At first follow up, 3 (1.5%) had hypocalcaemia (adjusted calcium < 2.1 mmol/L) despite treatment on discharge. Three (1.5%) had treatment related hypercalcaemia. Using this protocol, 61% of patients did not require any supplements on discharge. When compared to TP/UNE, BNE has higher overall risk of calcium related complications (14.2% vs 4% respectively; p=0.034) and failure of treatment (7% vs 1% respectively; p=0.02).

Conclusion

This protocol is reliable in identifying patients at risk of hypocalcaemia post parathyroidectomy and avoids unnecessary supplementation. Further modifications (including avoidance of active vitamin D after TP/UNE and prophylactic supplements in select cohorts) will be introduced and potentially reduce hypo- and hypercalcaemia even further.
Audit of the accuracy of the UK Registry of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Cooper Duncan , Aspinall Sebastian , Hay Ashley , Adamson Richard , Nixon Iain
Published: March 2022

Background

Clinician-inputted data is collected in the UK Registry of Thyroid Surgery (UKRETS) on endocrine operations performed by members of the British Association of Thyroid Surgeons (BAETS) and analyses of the data published annually in the Surgeon Specific Outcome Reports, National Audit Report and peer reviewed journals. However, UKRETS has never been externally validated. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of data reported in the UKRETS.

Methods

Retrospective audit of the accuracy of data in UKRETS for all thyroid operations performed by two surgeons from a single centre between 1/7/2016-30/6/2019. UKRETS data was compared with data extracted by an independent assessor from hospital Electronic Patient Records (EPR).

Results

204 patients were analysed. 91 (44.6%) had total thyroidectomy, 101 (49.5%) thyroid lobectomy and 34 (16.7%) neck dissection +/- thyroidectomy. 4080 data points from UKRETS were analysed. 94.0% (3835/4080) were accurate when compared to EPR. Pre-operative data was the least accurate 91.9% (937/1020) and peri-operative data was the most accurate 97.7% (997/1020). Post-operative and follow-up data had accuracies of 93.8% (957/1020) and 92.5% (944/1020) respectively. Date of operation was the most accurate, 99.0% (202/204) and date of discharge the least, 89.0% (182/204).

Conclusions

This study is the first external validation of data in the UKRETS and, while limited in number of surgeons / single centre, suggests that current data collection in UKRETS is accurate, particularly for peri-operative data. Further validation across multiple centres needs to be undertaken to confirm these findings.
Retrospective observational study comparing hand-assisted, retroperitoneal and trans-abdominal laparoscopic adrenalectomy
Authors: Shaw Alexander , Doran Helen , Kim Isaac , Mehra Sanjay , Fullwood Catherine , Moinuddin Zia , Augustine Titus
Published: March 2022

Aim

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is considered the optimal approach for most lesions. Various subsets of minimally invasive adrenalectomy are practiced in the UK, including trans-abdominal (TLA), hand-assisted (HLA) and retroperitoneal (RLA) laparoscopic procedures. We aimed to examine the relative operative outcomes between the 3 techniques.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational review of contemporaneously maintained databases from two nearby institutions to establish differences in outcomes between minimally invasive adrenalectomy for any size lesion. Statistical analysis was undertaken using R v3.6.0.

Results

Two hundred and ninety-seven patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy and were included in the analysis (45 RLA, 77 HLA and 175 TLA).

There were no significant differences between groups for institution location, wound infection, intra-operative bleeding, blood product requirements, visceral injury, open conversion, re-operation, incisional hernia, laterality of lesion, oncological outcomes and medical complications. Boxplots revealed a wider spread and increased mean operating time for TLA, with less difference in operation time between HLA and RLA groups. This was confirmed by an overall significant finding from Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test (p=<0.001) and pairwise comparisons using Wilcoxon rank sum test with a bonferroni correction for multiple testing which demonstrated significant differences between HLA and TLA, and RLA and TLA (p<0.001), but not between RLA and HLA (p=1.000).

Conclusion

Minimally invasive adrenalectomy can safely be performed by any of 3 techniques. TLA showed a longer mean operating time. The analysis of outcomes revealed otherwise no significant differences in operative or medical outcomes.
Initial experience with 4DCT: Apt Choice for Parathyroid Localization?
Authors: Rajan Sendhil , Bhatt Dhruti , Graveling Alex , McAteer Dympna , Abraham Prakash , Aspinall Sebastian
Published: March 2022

Aims

Optimal modality for pre-operative radiological parathyroid localization in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is controversial. Four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) is a newer imaging technique that can provide detailed anatomic information. We aimed to evaluate the performance of 4DCT as a localization tool for patients with PHPT.

Methods

Between 03/2018 and 05/2021, 121 patients were operated for primary hyperparathyroidism at our institution. 4DCT was used as a second line investigation in patients <60 years due to concerns about radiation. Electronic patient records including operation notes and pathology were reviewed. 80(66%) had 4DCT for localization.

Results

Mean age of the study population was 68.4 years (Range27–88). Mean tumour size on CT was 16.13mm (range 4–38). Mean serum calcium and PTH levels were 2.89mmol/L and 20.76pmol/L. 4DCT identified a lesion in 61 patients (sensitivity 76.2%) and correctly lateralized a pathological parathyroid in 58/61 patients (specificity 95.1%). Hyperplasia and smaller gland size were non-significantly associated with non-detection (p>0.05). Of the 61 patients with a positive 4DCT, 4 (6.5%) developed persistent disease – in two a lymph node/thyroid nodule was excised and two had multigland disease. In this study 4DCT correctly localized recurrent disease in 4 of 5 patients, and 12 of 15 patients with negative Sestamibi SPECT CT scan.

Discussion

4DCT offers accurate localization of abnormal glands in first-time parathyroidectomy for PHPT. Advantages include simplicity and speed of scan. Using 4DCT for first-time localisation is changing conventional practice of ultrasound+sestamibi scanning. It may have an added role in localizing disease in recurrent HPT and in patients who have a negative nuclear scan.