bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tri‐ and Tetra‐Substituted Derivatives of [Fe2(CO)6(μ‐dithiolate)] as Novel Dinuclear Platforms Related to the H‐Cluster of [FeFe]H2ases
Authors: Realini Francesca , Elleouet Catherine , Pétillon François Y. , Schollhammer Philippe
Published: March 2022

Novel carbonyl dithiolato diiron complexes [Fe2(CO)6‐xLx(μ‐dithiolate)] (x=3, 4), related to the active site of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases, have been synthesized by photolysis of hexacarbonyl species [Fe2(CO)6(μ‐dithiolate)] (dithiolate={S2(CH2)3} (pdt), {SCH2}2NR with R=iPr (adti−Pr) or Bn (adtBn)). The new compounds were characterized by structural and spectroscopic methods. Variable‐temperature (VT) NMR experiments revealed their fluxionality in solution depending on terminal ligands exchanges and dithiolate bridge motions. Preliminary results on their protonation giving hydride species and their electrochemical properties are reported.
Roles, experiences and perspectives of the stakeholders of “10,000 Lives” smoking cessation initiative in Central Queensland: Findings from an online survey during COVID‐19 situation
Authors: Khan Arifuzzaman , Green Kalie , Smoll Nicolas , Khandaker Gulam , Gartner Coral , Lawler Sheleigh
Published: March 2022

Issue addressed

The “10,000 Lives” initiative was launched in Central Queensland in November 2017 to reduce daily smoking prevalence to 9.5% by 2030 by promoting available smoking cessation interventions. One of the main strategies was to identify and engage possible stakeholders (local champions for the program) from hospitals and community organisations to increase conversations about smoking cessation and referrals to Quitline. We aimed to understand the roles, experiences and perceptions of stakeholders (possible champions for delivering smoking cessation support) of the “10,000 Lives” initiative in Central Queensland, Australia.

Methods

We conducted a mixed‐method online survey during the COVID‐19 situation (23 June 2020 to 22 August 2020) with a cross‐section of possible stakeholders who were targeted for involvement in “10, 000 Lives” using a structured questionnaire with mostly closed‐ended questions. Questions were asked regarding their roles, experiences and perceptions about smoking cessation and “10,000 Lives”.

Results

Among the 110 respondents, 52 (47.3%) reported having provided smoking cessation support, including referral to Quitline, brief intervention and promoting existing interventions. Among them (n = 52), 31 (59.6%) were from hospitals and health services, 14 (26.9%) were from community services and three (5.8%) were from private medical practices while four of them did not report their setting. Twenty‐five respondents (22.7%) self‐identified as being directly involved with the “10, 000 Lives” initiative, which significantly predicted provision of smoking cessation support (OR 6.0, 95% CI: 2.1‐19.8). However, a substantial proportion (63.5%) of those (n = 52) who reported delivering cessation support did not identify as contributing to “10,000 Lives”.

Conclusions

Stakeholders from hospitals, health services and community services are the main providers of smoking cessation support in Central Queensland. More could be done to support other stakeholders to feel confident about providing cessation support and to feel included in the initiative.

So what?

Engaging with a range of stakeholders is critical for health promotion program success, to further develop the program and to ensure its sustainability. As such, funding needs to be allocated to the activities that enable this process to occur.
Clinical role of serum histone deacetylase 4 measurement in acute ischemic stroke: Relation to disease risk, severity, and prognosis
Authors: Wang Min , Pang XuYang , Lu Huaihai , Wang Xudong
Published: March 2022

Objective

Histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) is engaged in the pathophysiology of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) through modulating atherosclerosis, inflammation and neurocyte death. This study aimed to investigate the clinical role of HDAC4 in AIS.

Methods

Serum samples were collected from 176 AIS patients and 80 controls for HDAC4 detection by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In AIS patients, disease severity was assessed by National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and their recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated, inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules were detected by ELISA.

Results

HDAC4 was declined in AIS patients vs. controls (p < 0.001), it also had certain ability of distinguishing AIS patients from controls with an area under curve of 0.748 (95% confidence interval: 0.689–0.806). Among AIS patients, HDAC4 was negatively linked with NIHSS score (p < 0.001) but no other clinical features (all p > 0.05). Moreover, HDAC4 was negatively related to interleukin (IL)‐17 (p = 0.010) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (p = 0.001), while it was not correlated with IL‐1β (p = 0.081) or IL‐6 (p = 0.074). Furthermore, HDAC4 was negatively associated with intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (p < 0.001) and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (p = 0.003). During a median follow‐up of 19.0 months, 17 (9.7%) patients had recurrence and 10 (5.7%) patients died. Additionally, high HDAC4 was linked with prolonged RFS (p = 0.044) but not OS (p = 0.079).

Conclusion

HDAC4 possesses the potential to monitor disease risk, inflammation and estimate recurrence of AIS, while further study with larger scale is needed to verify our findings.
Enhanced capillary zone electrophoresis in cyclic olefin copolymer microchannels using the combination of dynamic and static coatings for rapid analysis of carnosine and niacinamide in cosmetics
Authors: Chen Yali , Xia Ling , Xiao Xiaohua , Li Gongke
Published: March 2022

Cosmetics that have medicinal effects, including anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant, have become a daily care routine consumption. The peptide additives, such as carnosine and nicotinamide, were frequently used to realize these medicinal effects. To accomplish rapid and effective quantitation of carnosine and niacinamide in cosmetics, capillary zone electrophoresis was executed in cyclic olefin copolymer microchips having both dynamic and static coatings. The static coating of cyclic olefin copolymer microchannel was constructed from bovine serum albumin adsorption, immobilization, and active site closure, while the dynamic coating was formed by adding surfactant into running buffer of capillary zone electrophoresis. The static coating can improve the hydrophilicity of cyclic olefin copolymer surface and avoid nonspecific peptide adsorption. The dynamic coating of sodium dodecyl sulfate in running buffer proved to be useful in flow velocity adjustment and the column efficiency enhancement in the capillary zone electrophoresis separation channel of the cyclic olefin copolymer microchip device. A separation resolution up to 4.24 on the mixture of carnosine and nicotinamide was obtained. Moreover, an analysis method was established and applied to simultaneous carnosine and nicotinamide determination in a liquid whitening essence and a solid antiglycation pill, and the results were verified by comparison with high‐performance liquid chromatography methods, indicating its potential in complex sample analysis.
Failure correction of antenna arrays using convex optimization
Authors: Bai Guo , Feng Ju , Liu Yuanzhi , Cheng You‐Feng , Liao Cheng
Published: March 2022

In this article, a convex optimization method for failure correction of impaired antenna arrays is proposed. The number of elements to be corrected is iteratively minimized through the reweighted L1‐norm algorithm while the corrected radiation pattern can be also ensured to be nearly consistent with the original one. Numerical results of a linear and a planar array correction demonstrate the better performance of the proposed method in terms of pattern consistency, number of corrected elements, and iteration speed compared with the state‐of‐the‐art techniques.
Quasi‐Experimental Evidence on the Effects of Expanding Cash Welfare
Authors: Freedman Matthew , Kim Yoonjung
Published: March 2022

We study the labor supply and consumption responses to cash assistance delivered through the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program in the United States. Exploiting a sharp increase in cash benefit generosity for low‐income single‐parent families in New Hampshire due to a legislative revision to payment calculations, we implement difference‐in‐differences and triple‐differences to estimate the impacts of greater benefits on work behavior as well as on food expenditures and food security. Our results suggest that more generous cash assistance reduces labor supply among likely TANF‐eligible individuals. At the same time, greater cash benefits increase household food spending and reduce the incidence of food insecurity. Our findings speak to individual and family responses to expanded cash assistance in an era in which cash welfare is at historically low levels, is time limited, and imposes work requirements.
Influence of Polarities of GaN Substrates on Surface Morphologies and Physical Properties of Epitaxial Mg‐Doped GaN Films Grown by MOCVD
Authors: Wei Sida , Wang Jing , Wang Xiaodan , Gao Xiaodong , Chen Jiafan , Mao Hongmin , Zeng Xionghui , Xu Ke
Published: March 2022

Herein, the influence of free‐standing GaN (FS–GaN) substrates with different polarities on the surface morphologies and physical properties of epitaxial Mg‐doped GaN films grown by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) is investigated. For the Mg‐doped GaN films grown on polar, semipolar, and nonpolar FS–GaN substrates, their surface morphologies vary greatly, which is attributed to the different surface states and growth modes. All films show high crystalline quality and are basically in a stress‐free state. For polar p‐GaN, good ohmic contact is achieved with Ni/Au electrode. For semipolar and nonpolar p‐GaN, there are obvious contact barriers between the p‐GaN and the metal electrodes, and the Mg‐doping concentration may be higher than that of the c‐plane epitaxial GaN according to the intensity ratio of the band edge peak with respect to the ultraviolet luminescence peak in photoluminescence spectra, which will be investigated in the near future.
A First‐Principles Study of the Structural, Magnetic, Optical Properties and Doping Effect in Chromium Arsenide
Authors: Kang Na , Wan Wenhui , Wang Bu-Sheng , Ge Yanfeng , Zhang Kai-Cheng , Liu Yong
Published: March 2022

Pristine and doped chromium arsenide (CrAs) in six different crystal structures is systematically studied to investigate the structural, magnetic, and optical properties for real applications by first‐principles calculations. First, it is found that the ground‐state structure is an orthorhombic MnP‐type structure with antiferromagnetic spin order. The rocksalt structure is a low‐energy metastable phase and a ferromagnetic metal with high spin polarization at the Fermi level. Second, the NiAs structure and MnP structure have a higher absorption coefficient than other structures in the infrared region and ultraviolet region, respectively. In the visible region, the wurtzite and zincblende structures are more transparent than other structures. At last, the substitution of Cr by Ti and the substitution of As by Te can lead to a phase transition in ground‐state structure and ground‐state magnetic order, respectively. These results can promote the application of the CrAs system into spintronics and optoelectronics.
Respiratory system as the main determinant of dyspnea in patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Mitrouska Ioanna , Bolaki Maria , Vaporidi Katerina , Georgopoulos Dimitris
Published: March 2022

Dyspnea on exertion is a devastating symptom, commonly observed in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). The pathophysiology of dyspnea in these patients has been mainly attributed to cardiovascular determinants and isolated abnormalities of the respiratory system during exercise, neglecting the contribution of the control of the breathing system. The aim of this review is to provide a novel approach to the interpretation of dyspnea in patients with PH, focused on the impact of the control of the breathing system during exercise. Exercise through multiple mechanisms affects the (1) ventilatory demands, as dictated by respiratory center activity, (2) actual ventilation, and (3) metabolic hyperbola. In patients with PH, exertional dyspnea can be explained by exercise‐induced alterations in these variables. Compared to healthy subjects, at a given CO2 production during exercise, ventilatory demands in patients with PH are higher due to metabolic acidosis (early reaching the anaerobic threshold), hypoxemia, and excessive upward movement of metabolic hyperbola owing to abnormal exercise response of dead space to tidal volume ratio. Simultaneously, dynamic hyperinflation and respiratory muscles weakness decreases the actual ventilation for a given respiratory center activity, creating a dissociation between demands and ventilation. Consequently, a progressive increase in ventilatory demands and respiratory center activity occurs during exercise. The forebrain projection of high respiratory center activity causes exertional dyspnea despite the relatively low ventilation and significant ventilatory reserve. This type of analysis suggests that the respiratory system is the main determinant of exertional dyspnea in patients with PH, with the cardiovascular system being an indirect contributor.
A clustering hyperrectangle model based on kernel density estimation for product quality detection
Authors: Lu Shaowu , Xie Hao , Tang Xiaoqi
Published: March 2022

With the rapid development of sensor technology, a huge amount of data is generated in the industrial manufacturing process, which poses new challenges for product quality detection. Meanwhile, the process data often have high‐dimensional characteristics of nonlinearity and strong correlation, so traditional methods are not suitable for quick quality detection. In this paper, to further enhance the speed and accuracy of quality detection, a clustering hyperrectangle model based on a kernel density estimation is proposed. First, based on the kernel density estimation, the distribution characteristics of data, which can directly provide optimal clustering parameter for thek‐means method, can be obtained. Next, to form the detection boundary of every hyperrectangle, the mean vector formed by clustering is used as the basis for determining the center of the hyperrectangle. Then, the distance between every sample point and the center of hyperrectangle is calculated for building the final detection condition. Furthermore, the joint determination based on the detection condition is used for effectively guaranteeing the detection accuracy. Finally, based on the simulation and experimental results, compared with the traditional methods, the proposed method can determine the detection condition in a more refined way, and has the merits of shorter test time and higher accuracy.
Functional Extracellular Vesicles for Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Kim Han Young , Kwon Seunglee , Um Wooram , Shin Sol , Kim Chan Ho , Park Jae Hyung , Kim Byung‐Soo
Published: March 2022

The unique biological characteristics and promising clinical potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) have galvanized EV applications for regenerative medicine. Recognized as important mediators of intercellular communication, naturally secreted EVs have the potential, as innate biotherapeutics, to promote tissue regeneration. Although EVs have emerged as novel therapeutic agents, challenges related to the clinical transition have led to further functionalization. In recent years, various engineering approaches such as preconditioning, drug loading, and surface modification have been developed to potentiate the therapeutic outcomes of EVs. Also, limitations of natural EVs have been addressed by the development of artificial EVs that offer advantages in terms of production yield and isolation methodologies. In this review, an updated overview of current techniques is provided for the functionalization of natural EVs and recent advances in artificial EVs, particularly in the scope of regenerative medicine.
Clustering Transition in Thermo‐Responsive Micropillars
Authors: Kim Junsoo , Choi Ji Seong , Lim Suim , Moon Seung Eon , Im Jong‐Pil , Kim Jeong Hun , Kang Seong Min
Published: March 2022

Clustering of high‐aspect‐ratio micropillars is a common phenomenon in nature, and has been utilized to build complex and large‐scale microarchitectures. To induce the clustering, the micropillars should be prepared to be metastable, so that they cluster under perturbation, such as the drying of water. Consequently, once micropillars cluster, they cannot de‐cluster spontaneously. This article shows that the micropillars of thermo‐responsive hydrogels can cluster and de‐cluster spontaneously and reversibly by changing the temperature. This behavior is called clustering transition. When the temperature is low, the micropillars swell and become soft. When the temperature is high, the micropillars de‐swell and become stiff. This phase transition alters the lowest energy state of the system, resulting in a reversible clustering transition. To demonstrate, high‐aspect‐ratio micropillars of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylamide) hydrogels are fabricated through a soft‐molding technique. The micropillars show the clustering transition, and the behavior is studied using a thermodynamic model. By controlling the temperature, the micropillars grip and release microparticles on‐demand.
MXenes Quantum Dots for Biomedical Applications: Recent Advances and Challenges
Authors: Sun Tiedong , Tang Minglu , Shi Yangtian , Li Bin
Published: March 2022

MXenes have aroused widespread interest in the biomedical field owing to their remarkable photo‐thermal conversion capabilities combined with large specific surface areas. MXenes quantum dots (MQDs) have been synthesized either by the physical or chemical methods based on MXenes as precursors, which possess smaller size, higher photoluminescence, coupled with low cytotoxicity and many beneficial properties of MXenes, thereby having potential biomedical applications. Given this, this review summarized the synthesis methods, optical, surface and biological properties of MQDs along with their practical applications in the field of biomedicine. Finally, the authors make an outlook towards the synthesis, properties and applications of MQDs in the future biomedicine field.
Prevalence and diversity of intestinal parasites in household and temple pigeons (Columba livia) in central Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Roshan Babu , Ale Purna Bahadur , Dhakal Madhuri Adhikari , Ghimire Tirth Raj
Published: March 2022

Background

Intestinal infection, caused by various protozoans and helminths, represents one of the significant health concerns in pigeons around the world.

Objectives

The present study aimed to determine the diversity and prevalence of the intestinal parasites in pigeons found in Ratnanagar Municipality, Chitwan, in central Nepal.

Methods

The fresh faecal samples (n = 155) were non‐invasively collected from different households and temples pigeons The individual samples were immediately preserved in the 2.5% potassium dichromate solution and transported to the research laboratory. Following direct wet mount and concentration methods, the samples were observed under a compound microscope.

Results

The results showed 87.1% prevalence rate with 16 parasite species that included 8 protozoan and 8 helminth faunae. The faecal samples of temple pigeons contained a higher prevalence rate with higher parasitic richness (95.6%; 16 species) than household pigeons (75.4%; 12 species). Mixed infection up to four different species was recorded in both types of sampling populations.

Conclusions

Pigeons harbour a greater prevalence and wider diversity of intestinal parasites and the parasitism varies based on the habitats. Proper management and effective deworming practices are recommended to control intestinal parasitic infection in these avian hosts.
X‐ray diffraction, scanning electronic microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis of toilet paper
Authors: Müller Marcelo , Basso Rodrigo L. O. , Delai Robson M. , Hönnicke Marcelo G.
Published: March 2022

At the shelf, highly bleached (soft and white) toilet papers samples of different brands and one grayish toilet paper sample of another brand have been selected for spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis, in order to figure out if they can present allergic components in their chemical composition. Traces of Ca, associated with the presence of CaC2O4H2O was found in one of the highly bleached toilet paper samples and in the grayish one. However, no traces of fungi were found in the scanning electronic microscopy images. A trial correlation between the chemical composition and mechanical properties of the tested toilet paper samples, surprisingly shows that the grayish toilet paper sample presents the highest softness.
Type space functors and interpretations in positive logic
Authors: Kamsma Mark
Published: March 2022

We construct a 2-equivalence $$\mathfrak {CohTheory}^{op }\simeq \mathfrak {TypeSpaceFunc}$$

CohTheory

op

≃
TypeSpaceFunc

. Here $$\mathfrak {CohTheory}$$
CohTheory
is the 2-category of positive theories and $$\mathfrak {TypeSpaceFunc}$$
TypeSpaceFunc
is the 2-category of type space functors. We give a precise definition of interpretations for positive logic, which will be the 1-cells in $$\mathfrak {CohTheory}$$
CohTheory
. The 2-cells are definable homomorphisms. The 2-equivalence restricts to a duality of categories, making precise the philosophy that a theory is ‘the same’ as the collection of its type spaces (i.e. its type space functor). In characterising those functors that arise as type space functors, we find that they are specific instances of (coherent) hyperdoctrines. This connects two different schools of thought on the logical structure of a theory. The key ingredient, the Deligne completeness theorem, arises from topos theory, where positive theories have been studied under the name of coherent theories.
Simultaneous determination of particle size, velocity, and mass flow in dust-laden supersonic flows
Authors: Allofs Dirk , Neeb Dominik , Gülhan Ali
Published: March 2022

The particle mass concentration and -mass flow rate are fundamental parameters for describing two-phase flows and are products of particle number, -size, -velocity, and -density. When investigating particle-induced heating augmentation, a detailed knowledge of these parameters is essential. In most of previous experimental studies considering particle-induced heating augmentation, only average particle mass flow rates are given, without any relation to measured particle sizes and -velocities within the flow or any indication of measurement uncertainty. In this work, particle number, individual particle sizes, and velocities were measured in a supersonic flow by means of shadowgraphy and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). The goals are to determine measurement uncertainties, a particle velocity-size relation, and the spatial distribution of number, size, velocity, and mass flow rate across the nozzle exit. Experiments were conducted in a facility with a nozzle exit diameter of 30 mm, at Ma∞ = 2.1 and Re∞ = 8.2e7 1/m. Particles made of Al2O3 and up to 60 µm in size were used for seeding. Particle mass flow rates up to 50 kg/m2 s were achieved. It is shown that an additional correction procedure reduced common software uncertainties regarding shadowgraphy particle size determination from 14% to less than 6%. Discrepancies between calculated particle velocities and experimental data were found. In terms of spatial distribution, larger particles and a higher mass flow rate concentrate in the flow center. The determined particle mass flow rate uncertainty was up to 50% for PTV; for shadowgraphy, it was less than 17%.

Graphical abstract
Retrospective single-center historical comparative study between proGAV and proGAV2.0 for surgical revision and implant duration
Authors: Brunner E , Schaumann A , Pennacchietti V , Schulz M , Thomale UW
Published: March 2022

Objective

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion shunt systems remain to be the most common treatment for pediatric hydrocephalus. Different valve systems are used to regulate CSF diversion. Preventing complications such as occlusions, ruptures, malpositioning, and over- or underdrainage are the focus for further developments. The proGAV and proGAV2.0 valve system are compared in this retrospective study for revision-free survival and isolated valve revision paradigms.

Methods

In the first part of the study, the shunt and valve revision-free survival rates were investigated in a retrospective historical comparison design for a period of 2 years in which each valve was used as standard valve (proGAV: July 2012–June 2014; proGAV2.0: January 2015–December 2016) with subsequent 30-month follow-up period, respectively. In the second part of the study, the implant duration was calculated by detecting isolated valve (valve-only) revisions together with another valve explantation during the entire period of the first study and its follow-up period.

Results

Two hundred sixty-two patients (145 male and 117 female, mean age 6.2 ± 6.1 years) were included in the cohort of revision-free survival. During the 30-month follow-up period, 41 shunt revisions, including 27 valve revisions (shunt survival rate: 72.1%, valve survival rate: 81.6%) were performed in the proGAV cohort and 37 shunt revisions, including 21 valve revisions (shunt survival rate: 74.8% and valve survival rate: 85.0%) were performed in the proGAV2.0 cohort without showing statistically significant differences. In the second part of the study, 38 cases (mean age 4.0 ± 3.9 years) met the inclusion criteria of receiving a valve-only-revision. In those patients, a total of 44 proGAV and 42 proGAV2.0 were implanted and explanted during the entire study time. In those, a significantly longer implant duration was observed for proGAV (mean valve duration 961.9 ± 650.8 days) compared to proGAV2.0 (mean length of implantation period 601.4 ± 487.8 days; p = 0.004).

Conclusion

The shunt and valve revision-free survival rates were found to be similar among the groups during 30 month follow-up. In patients who received “valve only” revisions and a subsequent explanation, the implant duration was significantly longer in the proGAV. Although the amount of patients with valve-only-revisions are small compared to the entire cohort certain patients seem to be at higher risk for repeated valve revisions.
A multicentre cohort study assessing the utility of routine blood tests as adjuncts to identify complete responders in rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors:   Eastern Rectal Cancer Response Collaborative, Ireland, Armstrong John , Balasubramanian Ishwarya , Brannigan Ann , Cahill Ronan , Cooke Fiachra , Creavin Ben , Fleming Christina , McVey Gerard , Mohan Helen , Mulsow Jurgen , Reid Conor , Ryan Éanna , Shields Conor , Schmidt Karl , Sheahan Kieran , Winter Des
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Management of rectal cancer with a complete clinical response (cCR) to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) is controversial. Some advocate “watch and wait” programmes and organ-preserving surgery. Central to these strategies is the ability to accurately preoperatively distinguish cCR from residual disease (RD). We sought to identify if post-NACRT (preoperative) inflammatory markers act as an adjunct to MRI and endoscopy findings for distinguishing cCR from RD in rectal cancer.

Methods

Patients from three specialist rectal cancer centres were screened for inclusion (2010–2015). For inclusion, patients were required to have completed NACRT, had a post-NACRT MRI (to assess mrTRG) and proceeded to total mesorectal excision (TME). Endoluminal response was assessed on endoscopy at 6–8 weeks post-NACRT. Pathological response to therapy was calculated using a three-point tumour regression grade system (TRG1-3). Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), serum albumin (SAL), CEA and CA19-9 levels post-NACRT (preoperatively) were recorded. Variables were compared between those who had RD on post-operative pathology and those with ypCR. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 21).

Results

Six hundred forty-six patients were screened, of which 422 were suitable for inclusion. A cCR rate of 25.5% (n = 123) was observed. Sixty patients who achieved cCR were excluded from final analysis as they underwent organ-preserving surgery (local excision) leaving 63 ypCR patients compared to 359 with RD. On multivariate analysis, combining cCR on MRI and endoscopy with NLR < 5 demonstrated the greatest odds of ypCR on final histological assessment [OR 6.503 (1.594–11.652]) p < 0.001]. This method had the best diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.962 95% CI 0.936–0.987), compared to MRI (AUC = 0.711 95% CI 0.650–0.773) or endoscopy (AUC = 0.857 95% CI 0.811–0.902) alone or used together (AUC = 0.926 95% CI 0.892–0.961).

Conclusion

Combining post-NACRT inflammatory markers with restaging MRI and endoscopy findings adds another avenue to aid distinguishing RD from cCR in rectal cancer.
A century of exercise physiology: key concepts in regulation of glycogen metabolism in skeletal muscle
Authors: Katz Abram
Published: March 2022

Glycogen is a branched, glucose polymer and the storage form of glucose in cells. Glycogen has traditionally been viewed as a key substrate for muscle ATP production during conditions of high energy demand and considered to be limiting for work capacity and force generation under defined conditions. Glycogenolysis is catalyzed by phosphorylase, while glycogenesis is catalyzed by glycogen synthase. For many years, it was believed that a primer was required for de novo glycogen synthesis and the protein considered responsible for this process was ultimately discovered and named glycogenin. However, the subsequent observation of glycogen storage in the absence of functional glycogenin raises questions about the true role of the protein. In resting muscle, phosphorylase is generally considered to be present in two forms: non-phosphorylated and inactive (phosphorylase b) and phosphorylated and constitutively active (phosphorylase a). Initially, it was believed that activation of phosphorylase during intense muscle contraction was primarily accounted for by phosphorylation of phosphorylase b (activated by increases in AMP) to a, and that glycogen synthesis during recovery from exercise occurred solely through mechanisms controlled by glucose transport and glycogen synthase. However, it now appears that these views require modifications. Moreover, the traditional roles of glycogen in muscle function have been extended in recent years and in some instances, the original concepts have undergone revision. Thus, despite the extensive amount of knowledge accrued during the past 100 years, several critical questions remain regarding the regulation of glycogen metabolism and its role in living muscle.
One-step model agnostic meta-learning using two-phase switching optimization strategy
Authors: Mahmud Saad , Lim King Hann
Published: March 2022

Conventional training mechanisms often encounter limited classification performance due to the need of large training samples. To counter such an issue, the field of meta-learning has shown great potential in fine tuning and generalizing to new tasks using mini dataset. As a variant derived from the concept of Model Agnostic Meta-Learning (MAML), an one-step MAML incorporated with the two-phase switching optimization strategy is proposed in this paper to improve performance using less iterations. One-step MAML uses two loops to conduct the training, known as the inner and the outer loop. During the inner loop, gradient update is performed only once per task. At the outer loop, gradient is updated based on losses accumulated by the evaluation set during each inner loop. Several experiments using the BERT-Tiny model are conducted to analyze and compare the performance of the one-step MAML with five benchmark datasets. The performance of evaluation shows that the best loss and accuracy can be achieved using one-step MAML that is coupled with the two-phase switching optimizer. It is also observed that this combination reaches its peak accuracy with the fewest number of steps.
Intraoperative ultrasound in brain tumor surgery: A review and implementation guide
Authors: Dixon Luke , Lim Adrian , Grech-Sollars Matthew , Nandi Dipankar , Camp Sophie
Published: March 2022

Accurate and reliable intraoperative neuronavigation is crucial for achieving maximal safe resection of brain tumors. Intraoperative MRI (iMRI) has received significant attention as the next step in improving navigation. However, the immense cost and logistical challenge of iMRI precludes implementation in most centers worldwide. In comparison, intraoperative ultrasound (ioUS) is an affordable tool, easily incorporated into existing theatre infrastructure, and operative workflow. Historically, ultrasound has been perceived as difficult to learn and standardize, with poor, artifact-prone image quality. However, ioUS has dramatically evolved over the last decade, with vast improvements in image quality and well-integrated navigation tools. Advanced techniques, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), have also matured and moved from the research field into actual clinical use. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and pragmatic guide to ioUS. A suggested protocol to facilitate learning ioUS and improve standardization is provided, and an outline of common artifacts and methods to minimize them given. The review also includes an update of advanced techniques and how they can be incorporated into clinical practice.
Does anticipation of penalty kicks in soccer transfer across similar and dissimilar sports?
Authors: Andrew Matthew , Causer Joe
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study was to examine whether anticipation skill associated with penalty-kick scenarios is sport-specific, or whether it transfers between sports that have similar elements. A shortened participation history questionnaire was used to identify 97 soccer players, 47 invasion sport players (e.g., rugby), and 72 other sport players (e.g., swimming), as well as skill level (hours of engagement/competition level). These participants completed a video-based temporal occlusion anticipation test that required them to select the destination of the ball across a series of soccer penalty scenarios. Results indicated that the skilled soccer players were more accurate than the skilled and less-skilled invasion sport players and skilled and less-skilled other sport players. Skilled soccer players were also more accurate than the less-skilled soccer players, with less-skilled soccer players exhibiting similar accuracy to both the skilled and less-skilled invasion sport and other sport players indicating that processes associated with anticipation of penalty kicks may be specific to their sport.
Mitochondrial ROS signalling requires uninterrupted electron flow and is lost during ageing in flies
Authors: Graham Charlotte , Stefanatos Rhoda , Yek Angeline E. H. , Spriggs Ruth V. , Loh Samantha H. Y. , Uribe Alejandro Huerta , Zhang Tong , Martins L. Miguel , Maddocks Oliver D. K. , Scialo Filippo , Sanz Alberto
Published: March 2022

Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) are cellular messengers essential for cellular homeostasis. In response to stress, reverse electron transport (RET) through respiratory complex I generates high levels of mtROS. Suppression of ROS production via RET (ROS-RET) reduces survival under stress, while activation of ROS-RET extends lifespan in basal conditions. Here, we demonstrate that ROS-RET signalling requires increased electron entry and uninterrupted electron flow through the electron transport chain (ETC). We find that in old fruit flies, ROS-RET is abolished when electron flux is decreased and that their mitochondria produce consistently high levels of mtROS. Finally, we demonstrate that in young flies, limiting electron exit, but not entry, from the ETC phenocopies mtROS generation observed in old individuals. Our results elucidate the mechanism by which ROS signalling is lost during ageing.
Weinen im Coaching – oder: Gehört der Taschentuchspender in jede Coachingpraxis?
Authors: Gutjahr Fabienne , Möller Heidi
Published: March 2022

Das Weinen als fundamentaler menschlicher Emotionsausdruck wirft innerhalb verschiedener Fachdisziplinen seit jeher Fragen auf. In den letzten Jahren lässt sich auch innerhalb der klinischen Forschung eine zunehmende Beschäftigung mit diesem Thema beobachten. U. a. konnte im Rahmen einer Untersuchung an der Universität Kassel eine Systematisierung über verschiedene Formen des Weinens in der Psychotherapie und unterschiedliche therapeutische Verhaltensweisen im Umgang damit entwickelt werden. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden die Erkenntnisse dieser Untersuchung auf den Bereich des berufsbezogenen Coachings übertragen und nutzbar gemacht. Die Bedeutung des Weinens für das Coaching wird im Allgemeinen sowie im Zusammenhang mit Trauerprozessen und krisenhaften Entwicklungen diskutiert. Es werden verschiedene Implikationen für die beraterische Praxis abgeleitet.
Engineering Framework for Assessing Materials and Processes for In-Space Manufacturing
Authors: Bhundiya Harsh G. , Royer Fabien , Cordero Zachary
Published: March 2022

In-space manufacturing is a candidate approach for constructing next-generation space structures with larger characteristic dimensions than modern deployable structures. While many construction methods have been proposed, analysis of their performance for building precision structures, such as large-diameter reflectors, is scarce. In this paper, we present a quantitative, system-level comparison of materials and processes for in-space manufacturing. By using performance metrics for thermal stability, resistance to disturbance loads, and minimal-mass buckling strength, we identify candidate feedstock materials. Then, using the metrics of energy consumption and accuracy, we compare candidate processing methods and find that deformation processing is a promising on-orbit manufacturing method. We synthesize the analysis with a case study on the construction of a tetrahedral truss supporting a reflector surface and provide guidelines for assessing materials and processes for in-space manufacturing.
Long-Term Outcomes of Revisional Malabsorptive Bariatric Surgery: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risk?
Authors: Lourensz Kaleb , Himantoko Irsa , Shaw Kalai , Laurie Cheryl , Becroft Louise , Forrest Edward , Nottle Peter , Fineberg Daniel , Burton Paul , Brown Wendy
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of revisional malabsorptive bariatric surgery.

Materials and Methods

Malabsorptive bariatric procedures are increasingly performed in the revisional setting. We collated and analysed prospectively recorded data for all patients who underwent a revisional Biliopancreatic diversion + / − duodenal switch (BPD + / − DS) over a 17-year period.

Results

We identified 102 patients who underwent a revisional BPD + / − DS. Median follow-up was 7 years (range 1–17). There were 21 (20.6%) patients permanently lost to follow-up at a median of 5 years postoperatively. Mean total weight loss since the revisional procedure of 22.7% (SD 13.4), 20.1% (SD 10.5) and 17.6% (SD 5.5) was recorded at 5, 10 and 15 years respectively. At the time of revisional surgery, 23 (22.5%) patients had diabetes and 16 (15.7%) had hypercholesterolaemia with remission of these occurring in 20 (87%) and 7 (44%) patients respectively. Nutritional deficiencies occurred in 82 (80.4%) patients, with 10 (9.8%) patients having severe deficiencies requiring periods of parenteral nutrition. Seven (6.9%) patients required limb lengthening or reversal procedures. There were 16 (15.7%) patients who experienced a complication within 30 days, including 3 (2.9%) anastomotic leaks. Surgery was required in 42 (41.2%) patients for late complications.

Conclusion

Revisional malabsorptive bariatric surgery induces significant long-term weight loss and comorbidity resolution. High rates of temporary and permanent attrition from follow-up are of major concern, given the high prevalence of nutritional deficiencies. These data question the long-term safety of malabsorptive bariatric procedures due to the inability to ensure compliance with nutritional supplementation and long-term follow-up requirements.

Graphical abstract

Key points

• Revisional bariatric surgery workload is increasing

• Revisional malabsorptive surgery is efficacious for weight loss and comorbidity resolution

• Revisional malabsorptive surgery is associated with high rates of nutritional deficiencies

• Attrition from follow-up in this specific cohort of patients is of particular concern due to the risk of undiagnosed and untreated nutritional deficiencies
Epidemiology of Asymptomatic Pre-heart Failure: a Systematic Review
Authors: Bergamasco Aurore , Luyet-Déruaz Anouk , Gollop Nicholas D. , Moride Yola , Qiao Qing
Published: March 2022

Purpose of Review

To quantify the prevalence of asymptomatic pre-heart failure (pre-HF), progression to more severe stages, and associated mortality.

Recent Findings

A systematic review was conducted between 01 January 2010 and 12 March 2020 (PROSPERO: CRD42020176141). Data of interest included prevalence, disease progression, and mortality rates. In total, 1030 sources were identified, of which, 12 reported on pre-HF (using the ACC/AHA definition for stage B HF) and were eligible. Prevalence estimates of pre-HF ranged from 11 to 42.7% (10 sources) with higher estimates found in the elderly, in patients with hypertension, and in men. Three studies reported on disease progression with follow-up ranging from 13 months to 7 years. The incidence of symptomatic HF (HF/advanced HF) ranged from 0.63 to 9.8%, and all-cause mortality from 1.6 to 5.4%.

Further research is required to investigate whether early detection and intervention can slow or stop the progression from asymptomatic to symptomatic HF.
COVID-19 as an effect modifier of the relationship between age and in-hospital survival in older patients admitted to an Italian Emergency Department
Authors: Zucchelli Alberto , Sepe Catello , Tarozzi Luca , Garelli Anna , Benedusi Francesca , Pignataro Samuele , Paolillo Ciro , Marengoni Alessandra
Published: March 2022

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic modified how persons got into contact with emergency services, particularly during the first wave.

Aim

The aim is to describe the characteristics of older persons with and without COVID-19 visiting the Emergency Department of a tertiary hospital and to investigate the impact of age on in-hospital survival in the two groups.

Methods

Patients older than 70 years were followed-up till discharge or in-hospital death. Cox regression models stratified by COVID-19 diagnosis were used to investigate survival.

Results

Out of 896 patients, 36.7% had COVID-19. Those without COVID-19 were older and affected by a higher number of chronic conditions but exhibited lower mortality (10.5 vs 48.1%). After the adjustment, age was associated with mortality only among those with COVID-19.

Discussion

COVID-19 modified the relationship between older age and in-hospital survival: whether this finding is explained by other biological vulnerabilities or by a selection of treatments based on age should be further investigated.
The Level of Anatomical Knowledge, Hard to Establish: a Systematic Narrative Review
Authors: Koppes Dorothea Maria , Triepels Charlotte Petronella Robertus , Notten Kim Josephina Bernadette , Smeets Carlijn Franscisca Anna , Kruitwagen Rutgerus Franciscus Petrus Maria , Van Gorp Toon , Scheele Fedde , Van Kuijk Sander Martijn Job
Published: March 2022

Objective

This literature review aimed to gain more insight into the level of anatomical knowledge based on published measurements among medical students, residents, fellows, and specialists.

Methods

We performed an extensive literature search in three online databases: Medline (using PubMed), Web of Science, and Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC).

Results

A total of 30 relevant studies were found. In these studies, participants took different anatomy tests, and their mean/median scaled scores range from 22.5 to 82.4% on a 0 to 100% scale.

Conclusion

This review provides an overview of what is known about measured anatomical knowledge. After critically reviewing the literature, we have to conclude that the existing literature confirms that anatomical knowledge is hard to establish, mainly due to the lack of standardisation.

Further research should focus on ways to define and assess ‘desired anatomical knowledge’ in different contexts. In a next phase, we can discuss if anatomical knowledge is lacking and if interventions are needed.
Analysis of the quality of remote working experience: a speech-based approach
Authors: Porcu Simone , Floris Alessandro , Atzori Luigi
Published: March 2022

The current pandemic situation has led to an extraordinary increase in remote working activities all over the world. In this paper, we conducted a research study with the aim to investigate the Quality of Remote Working Experience (QRWE) of workers when conducting remote working activities and to analyse its correlation with implicit emotion responses estimated from the speech of video-calls or discussions with people in the same room. We implemented a system that captures the audio when the worker is talking and extracts and stores several speech features. A subjective assessment has been conducted, using this tool, which involved 12 people that were asked to provide feedback on the QRWE and assess their sentiment polarity during their daily remote working hours. ANOVA results suggest that speech features may be potentially observed to infer the QRWE and the sentiment polarity of the speaker. Indeed, we have also found that the perceived QRWE and polarity are strongly related.
The regulatory effects of lactic acid on neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Chen Xueyi , Zhang Yangdong , Wang Haiyang , Liu Lanxiang , Li Wenwen , Xie Peng
Published: March 2022

Lactic acid is produced mainly in astrocytes in the brain and serves as a substance that supplies energy to neurons. In recent years, numerous studies identified the potential effects of lactic acid on the central nervous system and demonstrated its role in regulating brain function as an energy metabolism substrate or cellular signaling molecule. Both deficiency and accumulation of lactic acid cause neurological dysfunction, which further lead to the development of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as Major depressive disorder, Schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Multiple sclerosis. Although an association between lactic acid and neuropsychiatric disorders was reported in previous research, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which lactic acid regulates brain function is of significance for the early diagnosis and prevention of neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize evidence that is focused on the potential mechanisms of lactic acid as a signaling molecule involved in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders and propose a new mechanism by which lactic acid regulates brain function and disease through the microbiota–gut–brain axis to offer new insight into the prevention and treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases.