bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐speed observation of dynamic delamination failure in tapered composite laminates under tensile loading
Authors: Bozkurt Mirac Onur , Ozen Emine Burcin , Yavuz Burak Ogun , Parnas Levend , Coker Demirkan
Published: April 2024

This article presents high‐fidelity observations of the time evolution of unstable delamination growth in tapered composite beams under tensile loading via ultra‐high‐speed camera in conjunction with digital image correlation. Asymmetrically tapered GFRP laminates, with a thickness drop from 18 plies to 12 plies, are manufactured in three different layup configurations with grouped drop‐offs: [06/(02)3/06], [06/06/06], and [06/(±45)3/06]. Beam specimens are subjected to quasi‐static tensile loading in a servo‐hydraulic axial testing machine, and the damage evolution on one edge of the tapered beam is monitored in situ at 124,000 fps with a high‐speed camera (HSC). In selected tests, digital image correlation (DIC) analyses are conducted either on the edge or on the tapered surface to obtain the full‐field strain and elucidate failure mechanisms. Real‐time HSC observations of the damage sequence consistently affirm that the initial failure mechanism is a transverse crack at the nearest drop‐off to the thin section, which is followed by delaminations at interfaces of sublaminates. Unstable delamination growth is characterized by measurements of lower bounds of crack tip speeds. The unique crack speed data provide evidence for the existing effect of through‐the‐thickness stresses on delamination growth. The detailed sequence and patterns of dynamic failure presented in this paper can serve as a benchmark to validate damage models used in simulations of tapered laminates.

Highlights

The sequence of unstable delamination growth in tapered GFRP beams is investigated experimentally.

Characterized unstable delamination growth based on crack tip speed measurements.

Strain fields are evaluated along beam edges using DIC in real‐time.

In‐situ observations of dynamic failure can serve as a benchmark to validate damage models.
Processing of reactive Ni−Al powders via the LabRAM**
Authors: Jerke Madilyn R. , Crawford Grant A. , Groven Lori J.
Published: April 2024

Reactive Ni−Al materials have been developed using a variety of methods, with high energy ball milling (HEBM) being one of the most common means for tailoring reaction behavior. Powder production limitations associated with HEBM, including the addition of process control agents, have inspired the exploration of an alternate manufacturing technique: acoustic dry milling with the Resodyn Laboratory Resonant Acoustic Mixer (LabRAM). The influence of acoustic milling time, intensity, and media size with respect to microstructure and reactive behavior of Ni−Al powders were evaluated in this work. After just 20 min of milling, a reactive composite Ni−Al microstructure was produced. Milling intensity and media size were directly proportional to the formation of more homogeneous composite powders. The reaction onset temperature was decreased to 446 °C, or ≈200 °C lower than that of unprocessed material. The method shows promise for the production of reactive powder for a host of applications.
An orthotopic prostate cancer model for new treatment development using syngeneic or patient‐derived tumors
Authors: Chaudary Naz , Wiljer E. , Foltz Warren , Thapa Pratibha , Hill Richard P. , Milosevic Michael
Published: April 2024

Background

There are limited preclinical orthotopic prostate cancer models due to the technical complexity of surgical engraftment and tracking the tumor growth in the mouse prostate gland. Orthotopic xenografts recapitulate the tumor microenvironment, tumor stromal interactions, and clinical behavior to a greater extent than xenografts grown at subcutaneous or intramuscular sites.

Methods

This study describes a novel micro‐surgical technique for orthotopically implanting intact tumors pieces from cell line derived (transgenic adenocarcinoma mouse prostate [TRAMP]‐C2) or patient derived (neuroendocrine prostate cancer [NEPC]) tumors in the mouse prostate gland and monitoring tumor growth using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

Results

The TRAMP‐C2 tumors grew rapidly to a predetermined endpoint size of 10 mm within 3 weeks, whereas the NEPC tumors grew at a slower rate over 7 weeks. The tumors were readily detected by MR and confidently identified when they were approximately 2–3 mm in size. The tumors were less well‐defined on CT. The TRAMP‐C2 tumors were characterized by amorphous sheets of poorly differentiated cells similar to a high‐grade prostatic adenocarcinoma and frequent macroscopic peritoneal and lymph node metastases. In contrast, the NEPC's displayed a neuroendocrine morphology with polygonal cells arranged in nests and solid sheets and high count. There was a local invasion of the bladder and other adjacent tissues but no identifiable metastases. The TRAMP‐C2 tumors were more hypoxic than the NEPC tumors.

Conclusions

This novel preclinical orthotopic prostate cancer mouse model is suitable for either syngeneic or patient derived tumors and will be effective in developing and advancing the current selection of treatments for patients with prostate cancer.
Co‐targeting SKP2 and KDM5B inhibits prostate cancer progression by abrogating AKT signaling with induction of senescence and apoptosis
Authors: Brown LaKendria K. , Kanagasabai Thanigaivelan , Li Guoliang , Celada Sherly I. , Rumph Jelonia T. , Adunyah Samuel E. , Stewart LaMonica V. , Chen Zhenbang
Published: April 2024

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second‐leading cause of cancer mortalities in the United States and is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in men. While androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the first‐line treatment option to initial responses, most PCa patients invariably develop castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC). Therefore, novel and effective treatment strategies are needed. The goal of this study was to evaluate the anticancer effects of the combination of two small molecule inhibitors, SZL‐P1‐41 (SKP2 inhibitor) and PBIT (KDM5B inhibitor), on PCa suppression and to delineate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Human CRPC cell lines, C4‐2B and PC3 cells, were treated with small molecular inhibitors alone or in combination, to assess effects on cell proliferation, migration, senescence, and apoptosis.

Results

SKP2 and KDM5B showed an inverse regulation at the translational level in PCa cells. Cells deficient in SKP2 showed an increase in KDM5B protein level, compared to that in cells expressing SKP2. By contrast, cells deficient in KDM5B showed an increase in SKP2 protein level, compared to that in cells with KDM5B intact. The stability of SKP2 protein was prolonged in KDM5B depleted cells as measured by cycloheximide chase assay. Cells deficient in KDM5B were more vulnerable to SKP2 inhibition, showing a twofold greater reduction in proliferation compared to cells with KDM5B intact (p < 0.05). More importantly, combined inhibition of KDM5B and SKP2 significantly decreased proliferation and migration of PCa cells as compared to untreated controls (p < 0.005). Mechanistically, combined inhibition of KDM5B and SKP2 in PCa cells abrogated AKT activation, resulting in an induction of both cellular senescence and apoptosis, which was measured via Western blot analysis and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐Gal) staining.

Conclusions

Combined inhibition of KDM5B and SKP2 was more effective at inhibiting proliferation and migration of CRPC cells, and this regimen would be an ideal therapeutic approach of controlling CRPC malignancy.
(18)F‐fluorodeoxyglucose uptake by positron emission tomography in patients with IPAH and CTEPH
Authors: Sumer Celik , Okumus Gulfer , Isik Emine Goknur , Turkmen Cuneyt , Bilge Ahmet Kaya , Inanc Murat
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is driven by pathologies associated with increased metabolism such as pulmonary revascularization, vasoconstriction and smooth muscle cell proliferation in pulmonary artery wall. 18‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18FDG‐PET) is an imaging technique sensitive to glucose metabolism and might be considered as a non‐invasive method for diagnosis due to significant role of inflammation in idiopathic pulmonary artery hypertension (IPAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). The present study aimed to investigate the role of PET/CT imaging of patients with IPAH and CTEPH as an alternative diagnosis method. Demographic characteristics, FDG uptake in lungs, pulmonary artery and right ventricle (RV) of 17 patients (10 IPAH, 7 CTEPH), and 30 controls were evaluated. PET scanning, 6‐min walk test, pro‐BNP level, right heart catheterization of patients were performed both at the onsert and after 6‐month PAH specific treatment. IPAH and CTEPH patients had significantly higher left lung FDG (p = 0.006), right lung FDG (p = 0.004), right atrial (RA) FDG (p < 0.001) and RV FDG (p < 0.001) uptakes than controls. Positive correlation was detected between the RV FDG uptake and the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) (r = 0.7, p = 0.012) and between the RA FDG uptake and the right atrial pressure (RAP) (r = 0.5, p = 0.02). Increased RV FDG and RA FDG uptakes predicts the presence of pulmonary hypertension and correlates with mPAP and RAP, respectively, which are important indicators in the prognosis of PAH. Further studies are required whether FDG PET imaging can be used to diagnose or predict the prognosis of pulmonary hypertension.
The g‐ZnO/Hf2CO2 vdW heterostructure: A novel two‐dimensional material for sunlight‐driven photocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Miao Feng , Zhao Jianling , Li Huiran , Li Junyu , Feng Shiquan
Published: April 2024

In this work, by first‐principles calculations, we investigate the structural, photoelectric, and catalytic properties of g‐ZnO/Hf2CO2 vdW heterostructures to explore highly efficient photocatalysts of water splitting. Results show that the AA‐stacking g‐ZnO/Hf2CO2 vdW heterostructure (AA‐HS) with an indirect bandgap of 1.738 eV has a typical type‐II band alignment, which is benefit to effectively separate the photogenerated carriers into different layers and prevent their recombination. The conduction band minimum (CBM) and valence band maximum (VBM) of AA‐HS straddling the water redox potentials makes it satisfies the requirements of photocatalytic water splitting at pH = 7. In addition, to evaluate the photocatalytic performance of AA‐HS during oxidation evolution reaction (OER) process in water splitting, we calculated the change of Gibbs free energies of the intermediates on heterostructure under different conditions. Results show the Gibbs free energy decreases continuously at pH = 7 and U = 1.93 V. What's more, the AA‐HS has good sunlight‐absorption ability. External biaxial strain is not conducive to improving catalytic performance of AA‐HS.
Recurrence of sarcoidosis accompanied by lung cancer after drug‐induced pulmonary sarcoidosis with lung injury
Authors: Suzuki Kentaro , Kai Yoshiro , Kataoka Ryosuke , Takeda Maiko , Muro Shigeo
Published: April 2024

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease that is frequently localized in the lungs and lymph nodes. We herein report a case of pulmonary sarcoidosis secondary to shin'iseihaito administration. During remission with 5 mg prednisolone/day of maintenance treatment, chest computed tomography revealed a mass in the left lower lobe with re‐enlarged bilateral hilar/mediastinal lymph nodes. Transbronchial lung biopsy of the mass and endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration of mediastinal lymph nodes revealed adenocarcinoma and noncaseating granulomas, respectively. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with sarcoidosis recurrence associated with lung cancer without cancer metastasis. We present the case of sarcoidosis recurrence associated with lung cancer after drug‐induced pulmonary sarcoidosis with lung injury. To our knowledge, this is the first report of sarcoidosis triggered by drug administration and lung cancer. Histological diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy with lung cancer is essential for differentiating metastasis from sarcoidosis.
Statistical considerations in model‐based dose finding for binary responses under model uncertainty
Authors: Yan Zhiwu , Yang Min
Published: April 2024

The statistical methodology for model‐based dose finding under model uncertainty has attracted increasing attention in recent years. While the underlying principles are simple and easy to understand, developing and implementing an efficient approach for binary responses can be a formidable task in practice. Motivated by the statistical challenges encountered in a phase II dose finding study, we explore several key design and analysis issues related to the hybrid testing‐modeling approaches for binary responses. The issues include candidate model selection and specifications, optimal design and efficient sample size allocations, and, notably, the methods for dose‐response testing and estimation. Specifically, we consider a class of generalized linear models suited for the candidate set and establish D‐optimal designs for these models. Additionally, we propose using permutation‐based tests for dose‐response testing to avoid asymptotic normality assumptions typically required for contrast‐based tests. We perform trial simulations to enhance our understanding of these issues.
Coral‐inspired anti‐biofilm therapeutic abutments as a new paradigm for prevention and treatment of peri‐implant infection
Authors: Li Weiran , Huang Zhike , Li Xin , Zhang Mengqi , Li Qianqian , Luo Shulu , Li Yan , Wu Dingcai , Wu Shuyi
Published: April 2024

Peri‐implant infection is one of the major causes for implant failure. The transmucosal/transcutaneous surface of implant abutment is directly connected to the external environment and constantly exposed to a large number of bacteria. Establishing a robust anti‐biofilm barrier at the abutment surface to minimize the risk of peri‐implant infection is highly desirable in the field of dental implantology but remains challenging. Herein, a new class of therapeutic abutments featuring excellent anti‐biofilm performance is developed, which is achieved by admirably integrating the outstanding self‐cleaning property of polyethylene glycol and the long‐lasting renewable antibacterial property of N‐halamine. Through a comprehensive series of in vitro and in vivo experiments closely mimicking clinical conditions, therapeutic abutments have been successfully demonstrated to possess the ability of inhibiting biofilm accumulation to prevent peri‐implant infection, as well as to achieve persistent and accurate administration to reverse early‐stage peri‐implant infection. Furthermore, the therapeutic abutment could be repeatedly used, representing the characteristic of sustainable medical devices. These findings indicate a new paradigm for the prevention and treatment of peri‐implant infection.
Stronger Coupling of Quantum Dots in Hole Transport Layer Through Intermediate Ligand Exchange to Enhance the Efficiency of PbS Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Authors: Wei Yuyao , Ding Chao , Shi Guozheng , Bi Huan , Li Yusheng , Li Hua , Liu Dong , Yang Yongge , Wang Dandan , Chen Shikai , Wang Ruixiang , Hayase Shuzi , Masuda Taizo , Shen Qing
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, the extensively used lead sulfide (PbS) quantum dot (QD) hole transport layer (HTL) relies on layer‐by‐layer method to replace long chain oleic acid (OA) ligands with short 1,2‐ethanedithiol (EDT) ligands for preparation. However, the inevitable significant volume shrinkage caused by this traditional method will result in undesired cracks and disordered QD arrangement in the film, along with adverse increased defect density and inhomogeneous energy landscape. To solve the problem, a novel method for EDT passivated PbS QD (PbS‐EDT) HTL preparation using small‐sized benzoic acid (BA) as intermediate ligands is proposed in this work. BA is substituted for OA ligands in solution followed by ligand exchange with EDT layer by layer. With the new method, smoother PbS‐EDT films with more ordered and closer QD packing are gained. It is demonstrated stronger coupling between QDs and reduced defects in the QD HTL owing to the intermediate BA ligand exchange. As a result, the suppressed nonradiative recombination and enhanced carrier mobility are achieved, contributing to ≈20% growth in short circuit current density (Jsc) and a 23.4% higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.2%. This work provides a general framework for layer‐by‐layer QD film manufacturing optimization.
Highly Multiplexing, Throughput and Efficient Single‐Cell Protein Analysis with Digital Microfluidics
Authors: Cai Linfeng , Lin Li , Lin Shiyan , Wang Xuanqun , Chen Yingwen , Zhu Huanghuang , Zhu Zhi , Yang Liu , Xu Xing , Yang Chaoyong
Published: April 2024

Proteins as crucial components of cells are responsible for the majority of cellular processes. Sensitive and efficient protein detection enables a more accurate and comprehensive investigation of cellular phenotypes and life activities. Here, a protein sequencing method with high multiplexing, high throughput, high cell utilization, and integration based on digital microfluidics (DMF‐Protein‐seq) is proposed, which transforms protein information into DNA sequencing readout via DNA‐tagged antibodies and labels single cells with unique cell barcodes. In a 184‐electrode DMF‐Protein‐seq system, ≈1800 cells are simultaneously detected per experimental run. The digital microfluidics device harnessing low‐adsorbed hydrophobic surface and contaminants‐isolated reaction space supports high cell utilization (>90%) and high mapping reads (>90%) with the input cells ranging from 140 to 2000. This system leverages split&pool strategy on the DMF chip for the first time to overcome DMF platform restriction in cell analysis throughput and replace the traditionally tedious bench‐top combinatorial barcoding. With the benefits of high efficiency and sensitivity in protein analysis, the system offers great potential for cell classification and drug monitoring based on protein expression at the single‐cell level.
Cysteine‐Based Dynamic Self‐Assembly and Their Importance in the Origins of Life
Authors: Kuila Soumen , Nanda Jayanta
Published: April 2024

The knowledge regarding the origins of life from inanimate materials is still elusive. It was proposed that biological building blocks evolved from the inorganic substances present in the early earth conditions. However, the process by which chemistry can be converted into biology has not yet been achieved in the laboratory. The artificial system in the out‐of‐equilibrium state must maintain a few critical features of life, like compartmentalization, metabolism, and replication, to be considered alive. In this direction, working with cysteine (Cys)‐based molecules is strategic to understand the life evolution process. The presence of the sulphydryl (−SH) group in the Cys‐residue can build a dynamic equilibrium state through disulfide redox chemistry under the proper guidance of oxidizing and reducing agents. In this review article, our primary focus is to discuss the Cys‐containing short‐peptide‐based self‐assembly and disassembly processes. The formation of disulfide bonds sometimes helps in the self‐assembly process and gelation, but the reverse is also true in some cases. In the later part of this article, we cover the fact that these sulphydryl‐based systems have shown their adaptability to mimic different life‐essential criteria to participate in Darwinian evolution.
What Future for Kanak Languages? Size and Geographic Distribution
Authors: Leblic Isabelle
Published: April 2024

New Caledonia has 28 Kanak languages in addition to the languages brought by colonial immigration. There is remarkable linguistic diversity, and the recognition of Kanak languages has always been central to independence claims. Since the mid-2000s, about ten of them have been taught from primary school to university (about ten of them are taught as options in primary schools and only four in universities), and it is important to ask what future Kanak languages have among today’s younger generations. The heavy impact of the colonial system, and the Nouméa Accord of 1998, means questions of language are still relevant today. Kanak languages and cultures are at the centre of the decolonisation process.
Indigenous Rights or National Independence: Paths of Self-Determination in New Caledonia
Authors: Gagné Natacha
Published: April 2024

In New Caledonia, national independence is still on the agenda, but the “Indigenous strategy” – which relates to the global Indigenous movement and UN norms regarding Indigenous rights – is also being explored with a view to furthering decolonisation. The latter is, however, relatively new in the struggle to regain sovereignty and occupies a marginal place in the political field of this French territory. This chapter seeks to explain why arguing for the particular colonial situation of the territory and the demography of the Indigenous population has led them to pursue dual strategies towards self-determination.
“Fortunately, I Have My Field”: Changes and Permanencies in Kanak Family Farming
Authors: Bouard Séverine , Apithy Leïla , Guyard Stéphane , Sourisseau Jean-Michel
Published: April 2024

In this chapter, we examine the main transformations that have marked Kanak family farming and describe in particular the ways that monetarisation and globalisation have influenced Kanak custom. First, we briefly recall the historical foundations of Kanak family farming. We then describe the transformations that have swept through it: changes in the functions associated with Kanak family farming, the magnitude, the technical evolutions and the methods of deriving value from products obtained from agricultural activities, hunting and fishing, embedded in wider relationships of exchange and territorial anchoring. We go on to explore the sustainability of the non-commercial dimension of these activities. We conclude with lessons we can learn from the practice of family farming in order to think about its place and its contribution to the rural New Caledonian world and more broadly in future economic models.
Evidence for cryptic molting behavior in the trilobite Toxochasmops vormsiensis from the Upper Ordovician Katian Kõrgessaare Formation, Estonia
Authors: Bicknell Russell D. C. , Vargas-Parra Ernesto E. , Landman Neil H. , Pärnaste Helje
Published: April 2024

Documentation of cryptic trilobite behavior has presented important insights into the paleoecology of this fully extinct arthropod group. One such example is the preservation of trilobites inside the remains of larger animals. To date, evidence for trilobites within cephalopods, gastropods, hyoliths, and other trilobites has been presented. Importantly, most of these interactions show trilobite molts, suggesting that trilobites used larger animals for protection during molting. To expand the record of molted trilobites within cephalopods, we present a unique case of a Toxochasmops vormsiensis trilobite within the body chamber of a Gorbyoceras textumaraneum nautiloid from the Upper Ordovician Kõrgessaare Formation of Estonia. By examining this material, we present new insights into the ecology of pterygometopid trilobites, highlighting how these forms used large cephalopods as areas to successfully molt.
Tailoring surface roughness through the temporal variation of additive manufacturing process parameters
Authors: Hawthorn Barnaby , Mummery Ailsa , Mahmoodi Nasim , Farhan Khan Muhammad , Triantaphyllou Andrew , Dyson Rosemary J. , Thomas-Seale Lauren E. J.
Published: April 2024

The benefits that additive manufacturing (AM) offers to the industry are generally well understood and appreciated. However, the current design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) methodologies and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) packages neglect to exploit the full potential that AM can offer through its unique ability to vary material characteristics whilst the final component geometry is being formed. The purpose of this research is to demonstrate that additional design control can be gained through temporal DfAM (TDfAM). In this study, the ability to tailor the surface roughness of fused deposition modelling (FDM) AM polylactic acid (PLA) parts through the variation of two process parameters, nozzle temperature and print speed, is explored. The underpinning hypothesis is that variation of temperature and printing speed, can provide a significant change of surface roughness within one homogeneous part. This research demonstrated that nozzle temperature and print speed have a statistically significant effect on the surface roughness of the top and side surfaces. By increasing temperature and speed, the roughness of the side surfaces decreased and the roughness of the top surface increased. Furthermore, the in-silico implementation of TDfAM is demonstrated. As such, the research supports the hypothesis that TDfAM can enable additional control over the surface characteristics of a homogeneous part.
Closed-form expressions of the run-length distribution of the nonparametric double sampling precedence monitoring scheme
Authors: Magagula Zwelakhe , Malela-Majika Jean-Claude , Human Schalk William , Castagliola Philippe , Chatterjee Kashinath , Koukouvinos Christos
Published: April 2024

A significant challenge in statistical process monitoring (SPM) is to find exact and closed-form expressions (CFEs) (i.e. formed with constants, variables and a finite set of essential functions connected by arithmetic operations and function composition) for the run-length properties such as the average run-length (

$$ARL$$

ARL

), the standard deviation of the run-length (

$$SDRL$$

SDRL

), and the percentiles of the run-length (

$$PRL$$

PRL

) of nonparametric monitoring schemes. Most of the properties of these schemes are usually evaluated using simulation techniques. Although simulation techniques are helpful when the expression for the run-length is complicated, their shortfall is that they require a high number of replications to reach reasonably accurate answers. Consequently, they take too much computational time compared to other methods, such as the Markov chain method or integration techniques, and even with many replications, the results are always affected by simulation error and may result in an inaccurate estimation. In this paper, closed-form expressions of the run-length properties for the nonparametric double sampling precedence monitoring scheme are derived and used to evaluate its ability to detect shifts in the location parameter. The computational times of the run-length properties for the CFE and the simulation approach are compared under different scenarios. It is found that the proposed approach requires less computational time compared to the simulation approach. Moreover, once derived, CFEs have the added advantage of ease of implementation, cutting off on complex convergence techniques. CFE's can also easily be built into mathematical software for ease of computation and may be recalled for further work.
On the gradient rearrangement of functions
Authors: Amato Vincenzo , Gentile Andrea , Nitsch Carlo , Trombetti Cristina
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we introduce a symmetrization technique for the gradient of a $$\text {BV}$$
BV
function, which separates its absolutely continuous part from its singular part (sum of jump and Cantorian part). In particular, we prove a $$\text {L }^{\text {1}}$$

L

1

comparison between the function and the symmetrization just mentioned. Furthermore, we apply this result to obtain Saint-Venant type inequalities for some geometric functionals.
Unfolding and injectivity of the Kudla–Millson lift of genus 1
Authors: Zuffetti Riccardo
Published: April 2024

We unfold the theta integrals defining the Kudla–Millson lift of genus 1 associated to even lattices of signature (b, 2), where $$b>2$$

b
>
2

. This enables us to compute the Fourier expansion of such defining integrals and prove the injectivity of the Kudla–Millson lift. Although the latter result has been already proved in [5], our new procedure has the advantage of paving the ground for a strategy to prove the injectivity of the lift also for the cases of general signature and of genus greater than 1.
Locally free Caldero–Chapoton functions via reflections
Authors: Mou Lang
Published: April 2024

We study the reflections of locally free Caldero–Chapoton functions associated to representations of Geiß–Leclerc–Schröer’s quivers with relations for symmetrizable Cartan matrices. We prove that for rank 2 cluster algebras, non-initial cluster variables are expressed as locally free Caldero–Chapoton functions of locally free indecomposable rigid representations. Our method gives rise to a new proof of the locally free Caldero–Chapoton formulas obtained by Geiß–Leclerc–Schröer in Dynkin cases. For general acyclic skew-symmetrizable cluster algebras, we prove the formula for any non-initial cluster variable obtained by almost sink and source mutations.
Prognostic value of radiological T category using conventional MRI in patients with oral tongue cancer: comparison with pathological T category
Authors: Kawaguchi Masaya , Kato Hiroki , Kanayama Tomohiro , Tomita Hiroyuki , Hara Akira , Shibata Hirofumi , Ogawa Takenori , Hatakeyama Daijiro , Yamada Yoichi , Ando Tomohiro , Noda Yoshifumi , Hyodo Fuminori , Matsuo Masayuki
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the radiological tumor (T)-category using multiparametric MRI with the pathological T category in patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) and to examine which is a better predictor of prognosis.

Methods

This retrospective study included 110 consecutive patients with surgically resected primary OTSCC who underwent preoperative contrast-enhanced MRI. T categories determined by maximum diameter and depth of invasion were retrospectively assessed based on the pathological specimen and multiparametric MRI. The MRI assessment included the axial and coronal T1-weighted image (T1WI), axial T2-weighted image (T2WI), coronal fat-suppressed T2WI, and axial and coronal fat-suppressed contrast-enhanced T1WI (CET1WI). Axial and coronal CET1WI measurements were divided into two groups: measurements excluding peritumoral enhancement (MEP) and measurements including peritumoral enhancement. The prognostic values for recurrence and disease-specific survival after radiological and pathological T categorization of cases into T1/T2 and T3/T4 groups were compared.

Results

The T category of MEP on coronal CET1WI was the most relevant prognostic factor for recurrence [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.30, p = 0.001] and the HR was higher than the HR for pathological assessment (HR = 2.26, p = 0.026). The T category determined by MEP on coronal CET1WI was also the most relevant prognostic factor for disease-specific survival (HR = 3.12, p = 0.03), and the HR was higher than the HR for pathological assessment (HR = 2.02, p = 0.20).

Conclusion

The T category determined by MEP on the coronal CET1WI was the best prognostic factor among all radiological and pathological T category measurements.
Pectate lyase genes from Radopholus similis and their application in pathotype identification
Authors: Yang Sihua , Yang Shuai , Li Qianying , Lu Yang , Huang Xin , Chen Chun , Xu Chunling , Xie Hui
Published: April 2024

Radopholus similis is a destructive, migratory, and endophytoparasitic nematode. It has two morphologically indistinguishable pathotypes (or physiological races): banana and citrus pathotypes. At present, the only reliable method to differentiate the two pathotypes is testing the infestation and parasitism of nematodes on Citrus spp. via inoculation. However, differences in inoculation methods and conditions adopted by different researchers complicate obtaining consistent results. In this study, the parasitism and pathogenicity of 10 R. similis populations on rough lemon (Citrus limon) seedlings and the tropism and invasion of rough lemon roots were tested. It revealed that populations SWK, GJ, FZ, GZ, DBSR, and YJ were citrus pathotypes, which showed parasitism and pathogenicity on rough lemon and could invade rough lemon roots, whereas populations XIN, ML, HN6, and HL were banana pathotypes, having no parasitism and pathogenicity on rough lemon and they did not invade the rough lemon roots. Four pectate lyase genes (Rs-pel-2, Rs-pel-3, Rs-pel-4, and Rs-pel-5) belonging to the Class III family from these populations were amplified and analysed. The gene Rs-pel-3 could be amplified from six citrus pathotype populations and was stably expressed in the four developmental stages of the nematode, whereas it could not be amplified from the four banana pathotypes. Rs-pel-3 expression may be related to the parasitism and pathogenicity of R. similis on rough lemon. Hence, it can be used as a molecular marker to distinguish between banana and citrus pathotypes and as a target gene for the molecular identification of these two pathotypes.

Key points

• Four pectate lyase genes (Rs-pels) from Radopholus similis were cloned and analysed.

• The expression of Rs-pels is different in two pathotypes of Radopholus similis.

• A molecular identification method for two pathotypes of Radopholus similis using pectate lyase gene Rs-pel-3 as the target gene was established.
Pain catastrophizing in rheumatic diseases: prevalence, origin, and implications
Authors: Wilk Mateusz , Zimba Olena , Haugeberg Glenn , Korkosz Mariusz
Published: April 2024

Pain is a crucial factor in rheumatic disorders, and reducing it is a primary goal of successful treatment. Adaptive pain-coping strategies can enhance this improvement, but maladaptive approaches such as pain catastrophizing may worsen overall patient well-being. This narrative review aims to provide a concise overview of the existing knowledge on pain catastrophizing in the most prevalent specific rheumatic disorders. The objective of this study was to improve understanding of this phenomenon and its implications, as well as to pinpoint potential directions for future research. We conducted searches in the MEDLINE/PubMed, SCOPUS, and DOAJ bibliography databases to identify articles related to pain catastrophizing in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondylarthritis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and osteoarthritis (non-surgical treatment). Data extraction was performed on November 1, 2023. The investigators screened the identified articles to determine their relevance and whether they met the inclusion criteria. Following a bibliography search, which was further expanded by screening of citations and references, we included 156 records in the current review. The full-text analysis centred on pain catastrophizing, encompassing its prevalence, pathogenesis, and impact. The review established the role of catastrophizing in amplifying pain and diminishing various aspects of general well-being. Also, potential treatment approaches were discussed and summarised across the examined disorders. Pain catastrophizing is as a significant factor in rheumatic disorders. Its impact warrants further exploration through prospective controlled trials to enhance global patient outcomes.
Expected Energy of Zeros of Elliptic Polynomials
Authors: Torre Víctor de la , Marzo Jordi
Published: April 2024

In 2011, Armentano, Beltrán and Shub obtained a closed expression for the expected logarithmic energy of the random point process on the sphere given by the roots of random elliptic polynomials. We consider a different approach which allows us to extend the study to the Riesz energies and to compute the expected separation distance.
Two-row, three-row or powered circular stapler, which to choose when performing colorectal anastomosis? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Martín-Arévalo José , Pla-Martí Vicente , Huntley Dixie , García-Botello Stephanie , Pérez-Santiago Leticia , Izquierdo-Moreno A. , Garzón-Hernández LP. , Garcés-Albir M. , Espí-Macías A. , Moro-Valdezate David
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Three types of circular staplers can be used to perform a colorectal anastomosis: two-row (MCS), three-row (TRCS) and powered (PCS) devices. The objective of this meta-analysis has been to provide the existing evidence on which of these circular staplers would have a lower risk of presenting a leak (AL) and/or anastomotic bleeding (AB).

Methods

An in-depth search was carried out in the electronic bibliographic databases Embase, PubMed and SCOPUS. Observational studies were included, since randomized clinical trials comparing circular staplers were not found.

Results

In the case of AL, seven studies met the inclusion criteria in the PCS group and four in the TRCS group. In the case of AB, only four studies could be included in the analysis in the PCS group. The AL OR reported for PCS was 0.402 (95%-confidence interval (95%-CI): 0.266–0.608) and for AB: 0.2 (95% CI: 0.08–0.52). The OR obtained for AL in TRCS was 0.446 (95%-CI: 0.217 to 0.916). Risk difference for AL in PCS was − 0.06 (95% CI: − 0.07 to − 0.04) and in TRCS was − 0.04 (95%-CI: − 0.08 to − 0.01). Subgroup analysis did not report significant differences between groups. On the other hand, the AB OR obtained for PCS was 0.2 (95% CI: 0.08–0.52). In this case, no significant differences were observed in subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

PCS presented a significantly lower risk of leakage and anastomotic bleeding while TRCS only demonstrated a risk reduction in AL. Risk difference of AL was superior in the PCS than in TRCS.
Risk factors for femoral stem fracture following total hip arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Turnbull Gareth S. , Soete Sam , Akhtar Muhammad Adeel , Ballantyne James Anderson
Published: April 2024

Background

Femoral stem fracture following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an infrequent but nevertheless devastating complication, with an increasing worldwide prevalence as demand for primary THA continues to increase. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of risk factors for femoral stem fracture to help identify at risk patients.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on EMBASE, MEDLINE and AMED to identify relevant studies. Data regarding study design, source, population, intervention, and outcomes was collated. Data extraction was performed on a custom form generated using Cochrane recommended methodology and analysis of risk factors performed including odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 15 studies reporting a total of 402 stem fractures in 49 723 THAs were identified. The median time from index procedure to stem fracture was 68 months (IQR 42.5–118) whilst mean age at index surgery was 61.8 years (SD 6.9). Male gender (OR = 3.27, 95% CI = 2.59–4.13, p < 0.001), patient weight above 80 kg (OR = 3.55, 95% CI = 2.88–4.37, p < 0.001), age under 63 years (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.01–1.49, p < 0.001), varus stem alignment (OR = 5.77, 95% CI = 3.83–8.7, p < 0.001), use of modular implants (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.56–2.44, p < 0.01) and undergoing revision arthroplasty (OR = 3.33, 95% CI = 2.70–4.1, p < 0.001) were significant risk factors for prosthetic stem fracture. A risk window of 15 years post-surgery was identified.

Conclusions

This review concludes that patient weight, younger age, male sex, varus stem alignment, revision arthroplasty and use of modular stems are significant risk factors for femoral stem fracture. Modifying these risk factors where possible may help reduce incidence of femoral stem fracture in at risk patients.
A brief history of the Feulgen reaction
Authors: Biggiogera Marco , Cavallo Margherita , Casali Claudio
Published: April 2024

One hundred years ago, Robert Feulgen published a landmark paper in which he described the first method to stain DNA in cells and tissues. Although a century has passed since the discovery by Feulgen and Rossenbeck, the chemical reaction still exerts an important influence in current histochemical studies. Its contribution in diverse fields, spanning from biomedicine to plant biology, has paved the way for the most significant studies that constitute our current knowledge. The possibility to specifically explore the DNA in cell nuclei while quantifying its content makes it a contemporary and timeless method. Indeed, many histocytochemical studies following the 1924 paper have led to a deep understanding of genome organization in general as well as several specific mechanisms (e.g. DNA duplication or tumour pathology) that, nowadays, constitute some of the most fundamental pillars in biological investigations. In this review, we discuss the chemistry and application of the Feulgen reaction to both light and electron microscopy.
Preoperative anaemia in distal pancreatectomy: a propensity-score matched analysis
Authors: Radulova-Mauersberger Olga , von Bechtolsheim Felix , Teske Christian , Hempel Sebastian , Kroesen Louisa , Pecqueux Mathieu , Kahlert Christoph , Weitz Jürgen , Distler Marius , Oehme Florian
Published: April 2024

Background

Preoperative anaemia is a prevalent morbidity predictor that adversely affects short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing surgery. This analysis aimed to investigate preoperative anaemia and its detrimental effects on patients after distal pancreatectomy.

Material and methods

The present study was a propensity-score match analysis of 286 consecutive patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy. Patients were screened for preoperative anaemia and classified according to WHO recommendations. The primary outcome measure was overall morbidity. The secondary endpoints were in-hospital mortality and rehospitalization.

Results

The preoperative anaemia rate before matching was 34.3% (98 patients), and after matching a total of 127 patients (non-anaemic 42 vs. anaemic 85) were included. Anaemic patients had significantly more postoperative major complications (54.1% vs. 23.8%; p < 0.01), a higher comprehensive complication index (26.2 vs. 4.3; p < 0.01), and higher in-hospital mortality rate (14.1% vs. 2.4%; p = 0.04).

Multivariate regression analysis confirmed these findings and identified preoperative anaemia as a strong independent risk factor for postoperative major morbidity (OR 4.047; 95% CI: 1.587–10.320; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The current propensity-score matched analysis strongly considered preoperative anaemia as a risk factor for major complications following distal pancreatectomy. Therefore, an intense preoperative anaemia workup should be increasingly prioritised.
Bracing in severe skeletally immature adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: does a holding strategy change the surgical plan?
Authors: Ohrt-Nissen Søren , Heegaard M. , Andersen Thomas , Gehrchen M. , Dahl B. , Tøndevold N.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to assess the changes in flexibility during night-time bracing in skeletally immature adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) with curves in the surgical range.

Materials and methods

We included a consecutive cohort of 89 AIS patients with curves ≥ 45° and an estimated growth potential. All patients were eventually treated with fusion surgery, and all patients had side-bending radiographs prior to both bracing and surgery. Curves were classified as structural or non-structural curves according to Lenke at both timepoints.

Results

The main curve progressed by a mean of 12 ± 10° and the secondary curve by 8 ± 8°. Flexibility of the main curve decreased from 50 ± 19% to 44 ± 19% (p = 0.001) and the underlying curve from 85 ± 21% to 77 ± 22% (p = 0.005). In 69 patients (79%), the Lenke category did not progress during bracing. In 14 patients (15%), the progression in Lenke type occurred in the thoracic region (i.e., Lenke type 1 to type 2), while six patients (7%) progressed in the lumbar region (i.e., type 1 to type 3).

In the 69 patients that did not progress, we found that the last touched vertebra moved distally by one or two levels in 26 patients.

Conclusions

This is the first study to describe that curve flexibility decreases during bracing in severe AIS. However, this had only a modest impact on the surgical strategy. Bracing as a holding strategy can be applied, but the risk of losing flexibility in the lumbar spine should be outweighed against the risks of premature fusion surgery.
Effects of cancer-induced cachexia and administration of l-glutathione on the intestinal mucosa in rat
Authors: Sestak Sabrina Silva , da Motta Lima Fabiana Galvão , de Oliveira Ana Paula , Barateiro Letícia Ganem Rillo Paz , Vieira-Frez Flávia Cristina , de Souza Sara Raquel Garcia , Guarnier Flávia Alessandra , Perles Juliana Vanessa Colombo Martins , Zanoni Jacqueline Nelisis
Published: April 2024

Walker-256 tumor is an experimental model known to promote cachexia syndrome, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation. This study evaluated the duodenal mucosa of rats with Walker-256 tumor administered with 1% l-glutathione, intending to evaluate the damage caused by cancer-associated cachexia in the gastrointestinal tract and the effects of antioxidant administration on mucosal protection. Twenty-four 55-day-old male Wistar rats were distributed into four groups: control (C); control administered with 1% l-glutathione (C-GSH); Walker-256 tumor (W) and Walker-256 tumor administered with 1% l-glutathione (W-GSH). After 14 days of treatment, the duodenum was harvested for morphometric analysis of the mucosa, proliferation, apoptosis, immunostaining of varicosities immunoreactive (IR) to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and 5-HT-IR cells, and quantification of mast cells and goblet cells. Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats showed cachexia syndrome, mucosal atrophy, reduced cell proliferation, reduced 5-HT-IR cells, and increased goblet cells and VIPergic varicosities, which were not reversed by l-glutathione. On the other hand, l-glutathione caused a reduction of cells in apoptosis and mast cell recruitment, demonstrating a partial recovery of the damage detected in the intestinal mucosa.
Antipsychotic prescribing: national findings of children and adolescents attending mental health services in Ireland
Authors: Driscoll David J. O. , McCarthy Suzanne
Published: April 2024

Antipsychotic prescribing trends vary internationally, albeit off-label use remains high (i.e., target symptoms). We aim to describe antipsychotic use, target conditions, target symptoms and dosing regimens in children and adolescents in Ireland. We used a sampled cohort from a national audit of children and adolescents attending mental health services with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria from Jul-2021 to Dec-2021 who were prescribed at least one psychotropic medication and up to and including 17-years of age (n = 3528). Each service provided anonymised data. We described the frequency of antipsychotic medication, medication type, target condition, target symptom and medication doses. We used multivariable logistic regression, adjusted with available co-variates to assess the association of being prescribed an antipsychotic medication. Twelve percentage (n = 437) were prescribed an antipsychotic and 16–17-years (n = 211, 48.3%) was the most common age category. The commonest reason for prescribing an antipsychotic was target symptoms (i.e., off-label use) (n = 329; 75.%) and of these symptoms, agitation (n = 77/329; 25%) and irritability (56/239; 25%) were the most common. Quetiapine (n = 127; 29%) was the most common antipsychotic, followed by risperidone (n = 125; 28.6%), aripiprazole (n = 107; 24.5%), and olanzapine (n = 66; 15.1%). In adjusted analysis, having a psychotic disorder ((adjusted-odds-ratio) aOR: 39.63, CI 95%, 13.40–117.22), bipolar disorder (aOR: 16.96, CI 95%, 3.60–80.00), autism spectrum disorder (aOR: 3.24, CI 95%, 2.45–4.28) or aggression symptoms (aOR: 16.75, CI 95%, 7.22–38.89) was associated with prescribing an antipsychotic medication. This is the first study in children and adolescents that describes the target conditions and target symptoms for antipsychotic use in Ireland. Our results show a high proportion of antipsychotic prescribing based on target symptoms rather than target condition or diagnosis.