bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased cytokine gene expression and cognition risk associated with androgen deprivation therapy
Authors: Verma Shiv , Kushwaha Prem Prakash , Shankar Eswar , Ponsky Lee E. , Gupta Sanjay
Published: July 2022

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard treatment modality for locally advanced, high‐risk, and metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer. Long‐term ADT treatment likely develops side‐effects that include changes in cognition or onset of dementia. However, the molecular understanding of this effect remains elusive. We attempt to establish a link between ADT and changes in cognitive function using patient databases and bioinformatics analyses.

Methods

Gene expression profiling was performed using RNA sequencing data from Alzheimer patient cohort and compared with the data from advanced‐stage prostate cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant antiandrogen therapy. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using the Ingenuity knowledge database.

Results

A total of 1952 DEGs in the Alzheimer patient cohort and 101 DEGs were identified in ADT treated prostate cancer patients. Comparing both data sets provided a subset of 33 commonly expressed genes involving cytokine‐cytokine signaling with an over representation of cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, inflammatory cytokines, signaling by interleukins together with alterations in the circulating lymphocyte repertoire, adaptive immune responses, regulation of cytokine production, and changes in T‐cell subsets. Additionally, lipopolysaccharide, tumor necrosis factor, and toll‐like receptors were identified as upstream transcriptional regulators of these pathways. The most commonly expressed genes viz. IL‐17A, CCL2, IL‐10, IL‐6, IL‐1RN, LIF/LIFR were further validated by quantitative RT‐PCR exhibited higher expression in antiandrogen treated neuronal, glial, and androgen‐responsive prostate cancer cells, compared to no‐androgen antagonist treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that changes in cytokine signaling under the influence of ADT in prostate cancer patients may be linked with cognitive impairment presenting new avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic development in combating brain deficits.
Differential effects of TRPM4 channel inhibitors on Guinea pig urinary bladder smooth muscle excitability and contractility: Novel 4‐chloro‐2‐[2‐(2‐chloro‐phenoxy)‐acetylamino]‐benzoic acid (CBA) versus classical 9‐phenanthrol
Authors: Malysz John , Maxwell Sarah E. , Petkov Georgi V.
Published: July 2022

Non‐selective cation channels in urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM) are thought to mediate increases in cellular excitability and contractility. For transient receptor potential melastatin type‐4 (TRPM4) channels, the evidence primarily relies on the inhibitor 9‐phenanthrol, which exhibits pharmacological limitations. Recently, 4‐chloro‐2‐[2‐(2‐chloro‐phenoxy)‐acetylamino]‐benzoic acid (CBA) has been discovered as a novel TRPM4 channel blocker. We examined how, in comparison to 9‐phenanthrol, CBA affects the excitability of freshly isolated guinea pig UBSM cells and the contractility of UBSM strips. Additionally, non‐selective TRPM4 channel inhibitor flufenamic acid (FFA) and potentiator BTP2 (also known as YM‐58483) were studied in UBSM cells. Unlike robust inhibition for 9‐phenanthrol already known, CBA (up to 100 μM) displayed either no or a very weak reduction (<20%) in spontaneous phasic, 20 mM KCl‐induced, and electrical field stimulated contractions. For 300 μM CBA, reductions were higher except for an increase in the frequency of KCl‐induced contractions. In UBSM cells, examined under amphotericin B‐perforated patch‐clamp, CBA (30 μM) did not affect the membrane potential (I = 0) or voltage step‐induced whole‐cell cation currents, sensitive to 9‐phenanthrol. The currents were not inhibited by FFA (100 μM), increased by BTP2 (10 μM), nor enhanced under a strongly depolarizing holding voltage of −16 or + 6 mV (vs. −74 mV). None of the three compounds affected the cell capacitance, unlike 9‐phenanthrol. In summary, the novel inhibitor CBA and nonselective FFA did not mimic the inhibitory properties of 9‐phenanthrol on UBSM function. These results suggest that TRPM4 channels, although expressed in UBSM, play a distinct role rather than direct regulation of excitability and contractility.
Second‐Harmonic Generation in Heteroepitaxially Grown, Orientation‐Patterned, Ternary GaAsP Periodic Structures
Authors: Wang Li , Vangala Shivashankar R. , Popien Stefan , Beutler Marcus , Tassev Vladimir L. , Petrov Valentin
Published: July 2022

Orientation‐patterned GaAs0.85P0.15 is grown by hydride vapor phase heteroepitaxy on an orientation‐patterned GaAs template and second‐harmonic generation is demonstrated for this ternary periodic structure using ultrashort pulses with an internal conversion efficiency exceeding 19%.
Long‐term outcomes of robot‐assisted radical thymectomy for large thymomas: A propensity matched analysis
Authors: Bongiolatti Stefano , Salvicchi Alberto , Puzhlyiakov Valerij , Cipollini Fabrizio , Viggiano Domenico , Gonfiotti Alessandro , Voltolini Luca
Published: July 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term results of robot‐assisted (RATS) thymectomy in the treatment of large thymomas, defined as larger than 5 cm.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 106 thymectomies from 2010 to 2020, creating two groups based on the surgical approach (open or RATS) and size. Kaplan‐Meier and Cox‐regression were used to estimate and identify risk factors of oncological outcomes. To perform a well‐balanced analysis, a propensity score matched (PSM) analysis was conducted for large thymomas.

Results

From 2015, we performed 54 RATS thymectomies: 53.7% (n = 29) for small and 46.3% (n = 25) for large thymomas. Conversions were similar and all patients had a complete resection. The overall (82% vs. 92%, p = 0.57) and disease‐free survival were comparable between RATS and open (92.5% vs. 93%, p = 0.67), outcomes confirmed after PSM for large thymomas.

Conclusions

RATS thymectomy could be considered a valid option in selected patients with large thymomas.
Dynamic surface control with a nonlinear disturbance observer for multi‐degree of freedom underactuated mechanical systems
Authors: Ding Feng , Huang Jian , Xu WenXia , Yang Chenguang , Sun Chong , Ai Yong
Published: July 2022

Underactuated systems are extensively utilized in practice while attracting a huge deal of attention in theoretical studies. There are few robust control strategies for general underactuated systems because of the variety of their dynamic models. A dynamic surface control strategy with a nonlinear disturbance observer is proposed in this study, to stabilize multi‐degree of freedom underactuated systems. In such systems the number of underactuated degrees of freedom is not higher compared to the actuated ones. A disturbance observer is utilized to dispose of the uncertain disturbance and cross terms in dynamic model which may cause failure to the controller. Then, a dynamic surface control strategy is presented which is not sensitive to the diversity of dynamic models. The stability of whole system is proven by Lyapunov‐based method. The control law is successfully applied to nonlinear underactuated systems in benchmark cascade form such as two‐translational oscillator with rotational actuator, crane, wheeled inverted pendulum. The effectiveness of proposed controllers are illustrated by MATLAB simulation results. Finally, comparative studies are presented to verify the superiority of the proposed method.
Tracking canopy gaps in mangroves remotely using deep learning
Authors: Lassalle Guillaume , de Souza Filho Carlos Roberto
Published: July 2022

Mangroves are among the most ecologically valuable ecosystems of the globe. Reliable remote sensing solutions are required to assist their management and conservation at broad scale. Canopy gaps are part of forests' turnover and rejuvenation, but yet no method has been proposed to map their occurrence and recovery in mangroves. Here, were propose an approach based on a deep learning framework called Mask R‐CNN to achieve automatic detection and delineation of gaps using very‐high‐resolution satellite imagery (<1 m). The Mask R‐CNN combines a series of neural network architectures to identify and delineate gaps, determine their recovery stage, and estimate their morphological attributes. The approach was tested on four mangroves from different regions of the globe with high concentration of gaps of various origins (lightning strikes, oil spills, cutting, pests). The Mask R‐CNN performed well to detect gaps, and accurately delineated gap contours (F1‐score of segmentation ≥0.89). The model also succeeded in distinguishing among five recovery stages of gaps, from their onset to closure (Overall Accuracy = 91.4, Kappa = 0.89). Accurate retrieval of gap area, eccentricity, and compactness – three relevant morphological attributes – were obtained (R2 ≥ 0.83, NRMSE ≤10%). Several sources of confusion and misdelineation were identified. Our approach shows promising transferability to other mangrove sites and optical sensors and could help monitor canopy recovery in mangroves. It also opens promising perspectives for identifying the origin of gaps (natural or human‐induced). It is intended to assist environmental managers and field experts in the management and conservation of these fragile ecosystems.
Skew‐cyclic codes based public‐key cryptosystem approach
Authors: Güzeltepe Murat , Çalkavur Selda
Published: July 2022

This is a survey on the theory of skew‐cyclic codes over the ring , where v2 = v. Coding theory plays an important role in the constructing cryptosystems. In this survey, we propose a public‐key cryptosystem using skew‐cyclic codes. The encryption is done by the Gray map ψ and the projection map φ is used for decryption. This approach is different from the others. More importantly, it is a secure system.
Study on the Occurrence State of Lanthanum in Rust Layer and Mechanism of Its Influence on Invasion State of Corrosion Atoms
Authors: Hou Yanhui , Zhou Shilong , Li Guangqiang , Moelans Nele
Published: July 2022

Rare earth elements have unique outer electronic structure, variable valence, and strong chemical activity; however, their occurrence state in the rust layer and influence on the invasion state of corrosion atoms are still unclear. Herein, using a combination of experiment and first‐principles calculation, the occurrence state of La in the rust layer of low‐alloy high strength steel, the phase composition, compactness and stability of the rust layer, and the invasion state of corrosion atoms before and after La alloying are studied. The results show that La exists in the corrosion products in the form of a solute atom. La increases the concentration of corrosion‐resistant elements Cr and Mo in the rust layer but does not change the phase composition. La is conducive to stabilizing Cl atoms in α‐FeOOH and β‐FeOOH, so as to protect the steel matrix from Cl. La atoms inhibit the dissolution of Cl atoms into γ‐FeOOH and Fe3O4 structures and hinder their formation.
An In Situ Scanning Electron Microscope Study of Void Formation Induced by Typical Inclusions in Low‐Density Steel during Tensile Deformation
Authors: Guo Shuai , Zhu Hangyu , Zhou Jie , Song Mingming , Dong Shuai
Published: July 2022

Herein, the void nucleation induced by typical inclusions in low‐density steel is observed using a scanning electron microscope during the in situ tensile deformations, and the void nucleation mechanism is clarified based on the numerical simulation. The dislocation accumulation and stress concentration are observed around single AlN, MnS, AlN–MnS, aggregated AlN, and aggregated AlN–MnS inclusions. The nucleation and development of the void are through the inclusion cracking or inclusion interface debonding. During the tensile process, the cracking of single AlN and debonding of MnS/matrix induce the void nucleation. For AlN–MnS, the debonding of the internal AlN/MnS interface or external MnS/matrix interface can both induce void formation, which is associated with the relative dimensions of AlN and MnS. Aggregated AlN and aggregated AlN–MnS are suggested to be more harmful to low‐density steel. The void nucleation in aggregated AlN and aggregated AlN–MnS is, respectively, owing to the debonding of the AlN/matrix interface or AlN/MnS interface.
Study on Structural and Physicochemical Properties of Modified Corn Starch: Comparison of Ultrasound, Stirring, and Lactic Acid Treatments
Authors: Fashi Armin , Delavar Ali Fallah , Zamani Abbasali , Noshiranzadeh Nader , Zahraei Hashem
Published: July 2022

Ultra‐sonication has been growingly utilized in starch modification as a green and non‐thermal technology. In this research, the effect of ultrasonic, stirring, and lactic acid treatments alone and with their combination (binary and ternary) on the properties and structure of corn starch is investigated. In the ternary treatment, degree of substitution of lactate on the polymeric chains of the starch is increased, inducing an esterified structure, which imparted to the modified starch a higher swelling power, water holding capacity, water absorption index, oil absorption rate, and amylose content along with lower viscosity and activation energy of gelatinization than native starch and the rest of the treatments. Also, the in vitro starch digestibility test with ternary treatment exhibits lowest rapidly digestible starch fraction, and highest slowly digestible starch and resistant starch fractions. The XRD patterns demonstrate a reduction in crystallinity percentage of the modified starch by the ternary treatment compared to native starch. The images of SEM indicate that ultra‐sonication and acid hydrolysis result in the damage of granules' surface, while sample agitation by stirring causes no change. Esterification of corn starch is proved by FT‐IR. Starch modification by the proposed ternary treatment can be utilized in production of low‐calorie foods.
Selenium deficiency aggravates bisphenol A‐induced autophagy in chicken kidney through regulation of nitric oxide and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Huijie , Zhang Yue , Qi Xue , Shi Xu , Huang Xiaodan , Xu Shi‐Wen
Published: July 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA), a phenolic compound, is harmful to humans and animals as its residue in the water threatens multiple organs, especially the kidney. Low selenium (Se) diets are consumed in many regions of the world, and poor Se status has exacerbating effect on toxicity of several environmental chemicals. Here, we described the discovery path of Se deficiency aggravation on autophagy in BPA treated chicken kidney through regulating nitric oxide (NO) and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. The actual dietary Se intake for chickens was 0.30 mg/kg in control group and 0.03 mg/kg in Low‐Se group, and BPA exposure concentration for chickens was 0.05 g/kg. Chicken embryo kidney (CEK) cells were used in vitro and the BPA exposure concentration for CEK cells was 150 nM. We found that BPA significantly increased levels of NO and inducible nitric oxide synthase, activated AMPK/mTOR signaling pathways, thereby triggering p62/LC3/Beclin1 signaling, resulting in formations of autophagosome and autolysosome, and finally stimulating autophagy in the chicken kidney. Additionally, Se deficiency promoted the occurrence of autophagy in BPA‐treated kidneys. Altogether, our findings showed that Se deficiency exacerbates BPA‐induced renal autophagy in chickens via regulation of NO and AMPK/mTOR signaling pathways. These findings will improve our understandings of the mechanisms of nephrotoxicity of BPA and detoxification by Se in chickens. In addition, further work is required to determine if Se status of exposed populations needs to be considered in future epidemiological assessments.
Games in youth leadership learning
Authors: Cantrell Megan S. , Stedman Nicole L. P.
Published: July 2022

Games allow adult facilitators to develop youth participants’ leadership learning in a meaningful and educational way. When working with youth as the audience there are particular elements that need to be considered to guarantee applicable leadership development. This article discusses the model of youth leadership development, youth‐specific facilitation practices, as well as examples of games that can be integrated into leadership development programs.
Game design: Re‐imagining learning and teaching leadership through active gameplay
Authors: Lebrón Mariana J. , Lasley Joe
Published: July 2022

Games aren't just useful products, the process of creating games is playful and full of learning potential. This article builds upon a discussion of game‐based learning as a cyclical, iterative process that includes motivation, action, and feedback by taking the discussion of the activity of creating games as learning activity. Leadership students first interact with predesigned gaming environments and then, as further demonstration of the confluence of game‐learned skills/knowledge and theory, they come to create their own cooperative gaming worlds.
Approximation by Szász‐Chlodowsky type operators associating 2D‐Appell polynomials
Authors: Ali Mahvish , Kadak Ugur
Published: July 2022

In this article, a Chlodowsky type generalization of Szász operators is considered in terms of the 2D Appell polynomials. Convergence properties of these operators are verified with the help of the universal Korovkin‐type property and the order of approximation is calculated by using classical modulus of continuity. Furthermore, weighted ‐statistical convergence and statistical weighted ‐ summability properties of the operators are obtained. Voronovskaja type results are established. The convergence of these operators are also discussed in weighted spaces of functions on the positive semi‐axis and estimate the approximation with the help of weighted modulus of continuity. Moreover, some numerical and graphical examples are also given to justify the results. Lastly, error bounds are calculated associated with the different choice of sequence .
Propagation of electroelastic waves in a continuously inhomogeneous piezoceramic solid cylinder†
Authors: Grigorenko Alexander , Loza Igor , Sperkach Svetlana , Bezuglaya Anna
Published: July 2022

The propagation of axisymmetric electroelastic waves in solid inhomogeneous piezoceramic cylinders based on 3D electroelasticity is considered. The surface of the cylinder is free of loads and covered with thin electrodes. A resolving system of differential equations in partial derivatives with variable coefficients is presented. An efficient numerical–analytical method to solve this problem is proposed. Components of the elasticity tensor, of the mechanical and electric displacement vector, the electrostatic potential and of the components of the stress tensor are presented by running waves in an axial direction. The three‐dimensional system of resolving equation is reduced to a boundary‐value problem described by a system of differential equations. The spectral characteristics of running waves in the solid cylinders for homogeneous and continuously heterogeneous piezoceramic materials are presented and comparative analysis is carried out.
Correction to: Probability in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (Funding Information)
Authors: Walrand Jean
Published: July 2022

This book is an open access publication. This title is freely available in an open access edition with generous support from the Library of the University of California, Berkeley.
Institutional Infrastructures for Open, Distance, and Digital Education
Authors: Benke Meg , Widger Laura
Published: July 2022

Infrastructure for open, distance, and digital education (ODDE) needs to have the capability to dynamically develop to accommodate varying models for the delivery of the curriculum and the changing needs of students and institutions. The capability to dynamically develop can be instilled within the institutional infrastructure for ODDE which includes areas such as information technology (IT), emerging technologies, marketing and recruitment, student prospect lead management, registration, educational materials, libraries, and student supports. Organizationally, infrastructures to support affordability, scalability, sustainability, and support must be developed. Open questions and directions for future research on institutional infrastructure for ODDE along with implications for ODDE practice that arise from this research are included.
Complete theory of radiative corrections to Kℓ3 decays and the Vus update
Authors: Seng Chien-Yeah , Galviz Daniel , Gorchtein Mikhail , Meißner Ulf-G.
Published: July 2022

Abstract

We fill up the missing piece in our own re-analysis of the long-distance electromagnetic radiative corrections to semileptonic kaon decays by performing a rigorous study in the K → πμ+νμ(γ) channels. With appropriate experimental and lattice inputs, we achieve a precision level of 10−4 in these channels. This is comparable to our previous analysis in the K → πe+νe(γ) channels. With this new result, we present an updated global analysis to extract the Standard Model parameter |Vus| from semileptonic kaon decays. We obtain |Vus| = 0.22308(55) and 0.22356(73), using the lattice average of the K0→ π− transition form factor at Nf = 2 + 1 + 1 and Nf = 2 + 1, respectively.
Existence of Dissipative Solutions to the Compressible Navier-Stokes System with Potential Temperature Transport
Authors: Lukáčová-Medvid’ová Mária , Schömer Andreas
Published: July 2022

We introduce dissipative solutions to the compressible Navier-Stokes system with potential temperature transport motivated by the concept of Young measures. We prove their global-in-time existence by means of convergence analysis of a mixed finite element-finite volume method. If a strong solution to the compressible Navier-Stokes system with potential temperature transport exists, we prove the strong convergence of numerical solutions. Our results hold for the full range of adiabatic indices including the physically relevant cases in which the existence of global-in-time weak solutions is open.
Assessing the between-country genetic correlation in maize yield using German and Polish official variety trials
Authors: Malik Waqas Ahmed , Buntaran Harimurti , Przystalski Marcin , Lenartowicz Tomasz , Piepho Hans-Peter
Published: July 2022

Key message

We assess the genetic gain and genetic correlation in maize yield using German and Polish official variety trials. The random coefficient models were fitted to assess the genetic correlation.

Official variety testing is performed in many countries by statutory agencies in order to identify the best candidates and make decisions on the addition to the national list. Neighbouring countries can have similarities in agroecological conditions, so it is worthwhile to consider a joint analysis of data from national list trials to assess the similarity in performance of those varieties tested in both countries. Here, maize yield data from official German and Poland variety trials for cultivation and use (VCU) were analysed for the period from 1987 to 2017. Several statistical models that incorporate environmental covariates were fitted. The best fitting model was used to compute estimates of genotype main effects for each country. It is demonstrated that a model with random genotype-by-country effects can be used to borrow strength across countries. The genetic correlation between cultivars from the two countries equalled 0.89. The analysis based on agroecological zones showed high correlation between zones in the two countries. The results also showed that 22 agroecological zones in Germany can be merged into five zones, whereas the six zones in Poland had very high correlation and can be considered as a single zone for maize. The 43 common varieties which were tested in both countries performed equally in both countries. The mean performances of these common varieties in both countries were highly correlated.
Chlorhexidine residues in sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plants: analytical determination and toxicity evaluation
Authors: Golpe Miguel Cobo , Castro Gabriela , Ramil Maria , Cela Rafael , Santos Ysabel , Rodríguez Isaac
Published: July 2022

In this work, a procedure for the sensitive and selective determination of chlorhexidine in sludge from municipal sewage treatment plants (STPs) based on matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) and liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was optimized and validated. Analysis of sewage sludge samples, obtained from different STPs in Northwest Spain from 2018 to 2021, showed that chlorhexidine was ubiquitous in this environmental compartment with concentrations between 0.3 and 16 µg g−1. The toxicity of this pollutant was assessed in in vitro assays considering three different model organisms: Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. C. albicans was the most sensitive of the tested microorganisms to chlorhexidine with a lethal threshold concentration of 0.1 mg L−1. Thus, the lowest observed sludge residue was 3 times higher than the acute toxicity threshold measured for C. albicans. Moreover, E. coli and S. aureus were also affected at chlorhexidine concentrations around 1.8 mg L−1 and 0.5 mg L−1, respectively. So, chlorhexidine residues might affect the population of microorganisms existing in STPs. In addition, the potential phytotoxicity of the compound was evaluated with germination experiments using different model seeds. At the evaluated dose (10 µg g−1 dried soil), chlorhexidine did not affect the germination of Sorghum saccharatum, Lepidium sativum, or Sinapis alba seeds. Thus, amending agriculture soils with chlorhexidine containing sludge is unlikely to affect the germination of plants.
Generation of Cross‐Specialty Consensus Statements on Soft Tissue Management via a Modified Delphi Method
Authors: Matic Damir , Cheng Joseph S. , Gauthier Olivier , Harder Yves , Lettieri Salvatore C. , Chatterjee Sandipan , Chen Maio , Volgas David
Published: July 2022

Background

Soft tissue management (STM) training programs for surgeons are largely tradition based, and substantial differences exist among different surgical specialties. The lack of comprehensive and systematic clinical evidence on how surgical techniques and implants affect soft tissue healing makes it difficult to develop evidence‐based curricula. As a curriculum development group (CDG), we set out to find common grounds in the form of a set of consensus statements to serve as the basis for surgical soft tissue education.

Methods

Following a backward planning process and Kern's six‐step approach, the group selected 13 topics to build a cross‐specialty STM curriculum. A set of statements based on the curriculum topics were generated by the CDG through discussions and a literature review of three topics. A modified Delphi process including one round of pilot voting through a face‐to‐face CDG meeting and two rounds of web‐based survey involving 22 panelists were utilized for the generation of consensus statements.

Results

Seventy‐one statements were evaluated, and 56 statements reached the 80% consensus for “can be taught as is.”

Conclusions

Using a modified Delphi method, a set of cross‐specialty consensus statements on soft tissue management were generated. These consensus statements can be used as a foundation for multi‐specialty surgical education. Similar methods that combine expert experience and clinical evidence can be used to develop specialty‐specific consensus on soft tissue handling.
Modification on antibacterial activity of PVC/PVDF blend filled with CuO NPs using laser ablation technique
Authors: Ibrahim A. S. , Ayad D. M. , Menazea A. A.
Published: July 2022

Nanocomposite of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) have been in situ synthesized. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) have been prepared via using the laser ablation technique. Nanoparticles were added to the blend. The properties of the blend were studied before and after adding CuONPs. These properties were characterized by different techniques. Antimicrobial activity of the prepared nanocomposite film was investigated. FTIR data show vibrational spectral bands and the shift of the bands is related to the interaction and the complexation that occurs between blend and nanoparticles. Structural properties and crystallinity of the samples were investigated using XRD diffraction. XRD results illustrated the effect of CuONPs at two new peaks 2θ = 26.25º and 38.41º. These results confirmed the interaction CuO NPs and PVDF/PVC matrix. UV–Visible analyses confirmed the existing of copper oxide nanoparticles and were also used for determining the optical absorption edge. The absorption edges have been obtained at 430–520 nm for all of the doping films. The obtained values for indirect and direct bandgaps were reduced by raising the nanoparticles because of the presence of charge transfer between PVC/PVDF and CuONPs. SEM images illustrateed the presence of CuONPs on the surface of the blend and the morphology changes which occurred to the blend. The antibacterial activity for the nanocomposite proved the antimicrobial effect of copper oxide nanoparticles. The prepared PVC/PVDF/CuONPs are potentially suggesting to be applied for biomedical applications.
Trabekulektomie mit Mitomycin C und Ologen®-Implantat im Vergleich zur klassischen Trabekulektomie
Authors: Helmers Gloria , Munteanu Cristian , Löw Ursula , Seitz Berthold
Published: July 2022

Hintergrund

Die Trabekulektomie (TE) mit Mitomycin C (MMC) gilt als Goldstandard der Glaukomchirurgie. Eine neuere Modifikation ist die Verwendung von Ologen®-Implantaten (AEON Astron Europe B.V., Leiden, Niederlande) bei der TE, die in dieser Studie bewertet und mit der klassischen TE verglichen werden soll.

Patienten und Methoden

In die Studie wurden 98 Augen nach TE mit MMC (Gruppe 1) sowie 70 Augen nach TE mit Ologen® und MMC (Gruppe 2) aufgenommen. Beide Gruppen wurden hinsichtlich des intraokulären Drucks (IOD), der medikamentösen Glaukomtherapie sowie Komplikationen und Nachbehandlungen verglichen. Die Daten wurden präoperativ und bis 2 Jahre postoperativ erhoben.

Ergebnisse

In Gruppe 1 verringerte sich der IOD von 28,0 mmHg (95 %-Konfidenzintervall: 26,6–29,4 mmHg) präoperativ auf 16,0 mmHg (14,0–18,1) nach 2 Jahren. In Gruppe 2 wurde der IOD von 28,5 mmHg (26,8–30,1) auf 14,3 mmHg (11,7–17) gesenkt. Zu allen Zeitpunkten war die Drucksenkung in beiden Gruppen signifikant (p < 0,001), zwischen den Gruppen bestand kein Unterschied (p > 0,05). Alle glaukomspezifischen Nachbehandlungen waren in Gruppe 1 häufiger, jedoch nicht signifikant.

Schlussfolgerung

Beide Verfahren zeigten sich gleichwertig effektiv bezüglich der IOD-Reduktion. In unserer Studienpopulation waren nach TE mit Ologen® weniger Nachbehandlungen und folglich seltener Klinikaufenthalte nötig.
Combining advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with finite element (FE) analysis for characterising subject-specific injury patterns in the brain after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Shim Vickie , Tayebi Maryam , Kwon Eryn , Guild Sarah-Jane , Scadeng Miriam , Dubowitz David , McBryde Fiona , Rosset Samuel , Wang Alan , Fernandez Justin , Li Shaofan , Holdsworth Samantha
Published: July 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability. The way mechanical impact is transferred to the brain has been shown to be a major determinant for structural damage and subsequent pathological sequalae. Although finite element (FE) models have been used extensively in the investigation of various aspects of TBI and have been instrumental in characterising a TBI injury threshold and the pattern of diffuse axonal injuries, subject-specific analysis has been difficult to perform due to the complexity of brain structures and its material properties. We have developed an efficient computational pipeline that can generate subject-specific FE models of the brain made up of conforming hexahedral elements directly from advanced MRI scans. This pipeline was applied and validated in our sheep model of TBI. Our FE model of the sheep brain accurately predicted the damage pattern seen on post-impact MRI scans. Furthermore, our model also showed a complex time-varying strain distribution pattern, which was not present in the homogeneous model without subject-specific material descriptions. To our knowledge, this is the first fully subject-specific FE model of the sheep brain able to predict structural damage after a head impact. The pipeline developed has the potential to augment the analysis of human brain MRI scans to detect changes in brain structures and function after TBI.
Neuroendoscopic lavage versus traditional surgical methods for the early management of posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus in neonates
Authors: Dvalishvili Aleksandre , Khinikadze Mirza , Gegia Giorgi , Khutsishvili Lali
Published: July 2022

Objective

Despite advances observed in neonatal neurosurgery, treatment of posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) remains a major challenge. This study aims to observe the outcomes of the application of the neuroendoscopic method for treating early-stage posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus.

Methods

A total of 60 medical cases were studied retrospectively. From 2016–2021, the patients were treated at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). As an initial neurosurgical intervention, 19 neonates (A) underwent neuroendoscopic lavage (NEL) of the ventricular system and evacuation of posthemorrhagic debris via ventricular washout. A total of 36 neonates (B) were treated via traditional surgical methods, out of which 24 neonates underwent ventricular reservoir implantation (VAD) and 12 underwent ventriculostomy (EVD). Of the 60 patients, there were 5 neonates (C), who were treated directly by ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting after serial ventricular/lumbar punctures. As the inclusion and surgical criteria were significantly different for this group, their data were evaluated separately. Accordingly, these patients were divided into three (A, B, and C) groups.

Results

The gestational age of group A neonates (31 weeks) was slightly higher than the gestational age of group B (29.1 weeks). During their hospitalization, 15 neonates (78.94%) from group A and 26 (83.87%) neonates from group B required shunting. In group B, 5 patients (12.19%) died before the need for shunting occurred. No lethal outcomes were observed in group A, and 9 (25%) patients from group B died during hospitalization. In group A, central nervous system (CNS) infections developed in 3 patients, which is much less than the 18 patients in group B. NEL was found to give better neurological outcomes in patients with intraventricular hemorrhages. Serial ventricular/lumbar puncture can be used as a life-saving manipulation in very unstable patients to temporarily decreasing intracranial pressure. Its frequent use is associated with brain parenchymal damage and poor neurological outcome.

Conclusion

The neuroendoscopic method of treating neonatal posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus is a safe and effective one. Its application reduces the period of patient hospital stay, the incidence of meningitis, and the frequency of development of multiloculated hydrocephalus.
Single-cell DNA sequencing identifies risk-associated clonal complexity and evolutionary trajectories in childhood medulloblastoma development
Authors: Danilenko Marina , Zaka Masood , Keeling Claire , Crosier Stephen , Lyman Stephanie , Finetti Martina , Williamson Daniel , Hussain Rafiqul , Coxhead Jonathan , Zhou Peixun , Hill Rebecca M. , Hicks Debbie , Rand Vikki , Joshi Abhijit , Schwalbe Edward C. , Bailey Simon , Clifford Steven C.
Published: July 2022

We reconstructed the natural history and temporal evolution of the most common childhood brain malignancy, medulloblastoma, by single-cell whole-genome sequencing (sc-WGS) of tumours representing its major molecular sub-classes and clinical risk groups. Favourable-risk disease sub-types assessed (MBWNT and infant desmoplastic/nodular MBSHH) typically comprised a single clone with no evidence of further evolution. In contrast, highest risk sub-classes (MYC-amplified MBGroup3 and TP53-mutated MBSHH) were most clonally diverse and displayed gradual evolutionary trajectories. Clinically adopted biomarkers (e.g. chromosome 6/17 aberrations; CTNNB1/TP53 mutations) were typically early-clonal/initiating events, exploitable as targets for early-disease detection; in analyses of spatially distinct tumour regions, a single biopsy was sufficient to assess their status. Importantly, sc-WGS revealed novel events which arise later and/or sub-clonally and more commonly display spatial diversity; their clinical significance and role in disease evolution post-diagnosis now require establishment. These findings reveal diverse modes of tumour initiation and evolution in the major medulloblastoma sub-classes, with pathogenic relevance and clinical potential.
Application of test-enhanced learning (TEL) in obstetrics and gynecology: a prospective study
Authors: Recker Florian , Haverkamp Nicolas , Mustea Alexander , Gembruch Ulrich , Raupach Tobias
Published: July 2022

Objective

Clinical reasoning is an essential skill, the foundations of which should be acquired during medical school. Within the format of test-based learning, such examinations can also be used to support the long-term retention of procedural knowledge necessary for clinical reasoning. The aim was to investigate whether repeated exposure to clinical cases in obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) with built-in questions leads to higher learning outcome than pure reading cases and what influence the delay between the intervention and the final test has on the retention of the respective content.

Methods

In this non-randomised crossover study, 5th-year medical students (duration of the study is 6 years) taking a 1-week clinical attachment in OBGYN participated in computer-based case seminars in winter term 2020/2021, in which different case histories on gynecological-obstetric diseases were presented. Case content was identical for all groups, but the presentation format (cases with key feature questions vs read-only cases) of individual case vignettes changed weekly. The also intervention was repeated after 2 weeks for each group. Knowledge was assessed in an entry and an exit exam consisting of 40 short-answer questions.

Results

A total of 94 out of 118 eligible students participated in the study (response rate: 79.7%). Learning outcome was significantly higher for items presented in the key feature format compared to items presented as read-only cases (74.2 ± 8.6% vs. 71.0 ± 9.2%; p = 0.017). Furthermore, the analysis showed that the temporal distance of the intervention package from the final examination had no influence on retention.

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate an effect of test-enhanced learning on clinical reasoning in the subject of OGBYN. In this cross-over study, repeated testing was more effective than repeated case-based learning alone. Curricular implementation of longitudinal key feature testing can thus improve learning outcomes for OBGYN.
The influence of auditory selective attention on linguistic outcomes in deaf and hard of hearing children with cochlear implants
Authors: Nicastri Maria , Giallini Ilaria , Inguscio Bianca Maria Serena , Turchetta Rosaria , Guerzoni Letizia , Cuda Domenico , Portanova Ginevra , Ruoppolo Giovanni , Dincer D’Alessandro Hilal , Mancini Patrizia
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Auditory selective attention (ASA) is crucial to focus on significant auditory stimuli without being distracted by irrelevant auditory signals and plays an important role in language development. The present study aimed to investigate the unique contribution of ASA to the linguistic levels achieved by a group of cochlear implanted (CI) children.

Methods

Thirty-four CI children with a median age of 10.05 years were tested using both the “Batteria per la Valutazione dell’Attenzione Uditiva e della Memoria di Lavoro Fonologica nell’età evolutiva-VAUM-ELF” to assess their ASA skills, and two Italian standardized tests to measure lexical and morphosyntactic skills. A regression analysis, including demographic and audiological variables, was conducted to assess the unique contribution of ASA to language skills.

Results

The percentages of CI children with adequate ASA performances ranged from 50 to 29.4%. Bilateral CI children performed better than their monolateral peers. ASA skills contributed significantly to linguistic skills, accounting alone for the 25% of the observed variance.

Conclusions

The present findings are clinically relevant as they highlight the importance to assess ASA skills as early as possible, reflecting their important role in language development. Using simple clinical tools, ASA skills could be studied at early developmental stages. This may provide additional information to outcomes from traditional auditory tests and may allow us to implement specific training programs that could positively contribute to the development of neural mechanisms of ASA and, consequently, induce improvements in language skills.
Megapinosomes and homologous structures in hematopoietic cells
Authors: Bauer Andrea , Frascaroli Giada , Walther Paul
Published: July 2022

Megapinosomes are endocytic organelles found in human macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) monocyte-derived M macrophages. They are large (several microns) and have a complex internal structure that is connected with the cytosol and consists of interconnected knots and concave bridges with sizes in the range of 100 nm. We called this structure trabecular meshwork. The luminal part of the megapinosome can be connected with luminal tubules and cisterns that form the megapinosome complex. The structures are especially well visible in scanning electron tomography when macrophages are prepared by high-pressure freezing and freeze substitution. Our research received a new impulse after studying the literature on hematopoietic cells, where very similar, most likely homologous, structures have been published in peritoneal macrophages as well as in megakaryocytes and blood platelets. In platelets, they serve as membrane storage that is used for structural changes of platelets during activation.
The changing landscape of immune cells in the fetal mouse testis
Authors: Hosseini Samira , Moody Sarah C. , Fietz Daniela , Indumathy Sivanjah , Schuppe Hans-Christian , Hedger Mark P. , Loveland Kate L.
Published: July 2022

Fetal testis growth involves cell influx and extensive remodeling. Immediately after sex determination in mouse, macrophages enable normal cord formation and removal of inappropriately positioned cells. This study provides new information about macrophages and other immune cells after cord formation in fetal testes, including their density, distribution, and close cellular contacts. C57BL6J mouse testes from embryonic day (E) 13.5 to birth (post-natal day 0; PND0), were examined using immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and RT-qPCR to identify macrophages (F4/80, CD206, MHCII), T cells (CD3), granulocytes/neutrophils (Ly6G), and germ cells (DDX4). F4/80+ cells were the most abundant, comprising 90% of CD45+ cells at E13.5 and declining to 65% at PND0. Changes in size, shape, and markers (CD206 and MHCII) documented during this interval align with the understanding that F4/80+ cells have different origins during embryonic life. CD3+ cells and F4/80−/MHCII+ were absent to rare until PND0. Ly6G+ cells were scarce at E13.5 but increased robustly by PND0 to represent half of the CD45+ cells. These immunofluorescence data were in accord with transcript analysis, which showed that immune marker mRNAs increased with testis age. F4/80+ and Ly6G+ cells were frequently inside cords adjacent to germ cells at E13.5 and E15.5. F4/80+ cells were often in clusters next to other immune cells. Macrophages inside cords at E13.5 and E15.5 (F4/80Hi/CD206+) were different from macrophages at PND0 (F4/80Dim/CD206−), indicating that they have distinct origins. This histological quantification coupled with transcript information identifies new cellular interactions for immune cells in fetal testis morphogenesis, and highlights new avenues for studies of their functional significance.
The relationship between telework from home and the psychosocial work environment: a systematic review
Authors: Vleeshouwers Jolien , Fløvik Lise , Christensen Jan Olav , Johannessen Håkon A. , Bakke Finne Live , Mohr Benedicte , Jørgensen Ingrid Løken , Lunde Lars-Kristian
Published: July 2022

Objective

Telework from home (TWFH) has become routine for many, yet research on how this may affect the psychosocial work environment is sparse. To understand the effects that TWFH may have on the psychosocial work environment, this systematic literature review identified, evaluated, and summarized findings on the association of TWFH with factors of the psychosocial work environment.

Methods

Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Amed, PsycINFO, and PubMed. The topic of the study reflected TWFH, and subjects should be office workers employed at a company. Outcomes should reflect psychosocial work environment factors. Inclusion criteria stated that studies should be primary, quantitative, and published in a peer-reviewed journal. English language publications dating from January 2010 to February 2021 were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) and quality of overall evidence using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

Searches resulted in 3354 publications, and after screening rounds 43 peer-reviewed original studies satisfying predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. Fourteen individual psychosocial work environment outcome categories were studied. Limited overall evidence to support effects of TWFH on the included work environment outcomes, with evidence being rated either of low or very low quality. Flexibility and autonomy are discussed as potential mediating variables in the relationship between TWFH and the psychosocial work environment.

Conclusion

There is a lack of high-quality research investigating effects of TWFH on the psychosocial work environment. To suggest TWFH guidelines or recommendations, there is a need for research with high-quality longitudinal designs, precise measures of time use and location of work, and validated measures of factors known to be of importance.

PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021233796.