bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substituting sedentary time with sleep or physical activity and subsequent weight‐loss maintenance
Authors: Larsen Sofus C. , O'Driscoll Ruairi , Horgan Graham , Mikkelsen Marie‐Louise K. , Specht Ina O. , Rohde Jeanett F. , Turicchi Jake , Santos Inês , Encantado Jorge , Duarte Cristiana , Ward Leigh C. , Palmeira Antonio L. , Stubbs R. James , Heitmann Berit L.
Published: December 2022

Objective

In this study, the associations between the substitution of sedentary time with sleep or physical activity at different intensities and subsequent weight‐loss maintenance were examined.

Methods

This prospective study included 1152 adults from the NoHoW trial who had achieved a successful weight loss of ≥5% during the 12 months prior to baseline and had BMI ≥25 kg/m2 before losing weight. Physical activity and sleep were objectively measured during a 14‐day period at baseline. Change in body weight was included as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were changes in body fat percentage and waist circumference. Cardiometabolic variables were included as exploratory outcomes.

Results

Using isotemporal substitution models, no associations were found between activity substitutions and changes in body weight or waist circumference. However, the substitution of sedentary behavior with moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity was associated with a decrease in body fat percentage during the first 6 months of the trial (−0.33% per 30 minutes higher moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity [95% CI: −0.60% to −0.07%], p = 0.013).

Conclusions

Sedentary behavior had little or no influence on subsequent weight‐loss maintenance, but during the early stages of a weight‐loss maintenance program, substituting sedentary behavior with moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity may prevent a gain in body fat percentage.
SSA‐optimized cascade optimal‐PIDN controller for multi‐area power system with RFB under deregulated environment
Authors: Rangi Sandeep , Jain Sheilza , Arya Yogendra
Published: December 2022

In today's rapidly evolving interconnected electric power system network, ancillary service such as automatic generation control (AGC) plays a critical and important role in safeguarding the system's power supply quality by establishing an equilibrium between generation and load demanded plus losses. A power system with a robust and smart AGC strategy is obligatory for better power quality and system security. Cascade control schemes cope up better with nonlinearity by tuning the gain of controller of power system amid continuous load changing. Therefore, in this article, a supplementary control approach that is, cascade optimal controller‐proportional integral with derivative filter (COC‐PIDN) is suggested for AGC performance advancement of the power systems under deregulated environment. The OC designed consuming full state feedback control approach acts as master controller and PIDN plays the role of slave controller. The nature inspired salp swarm algorithm is employed to adjust the PIDN parameters. Initially, the efficacy of the COC‐PIDN control‐method is explored on a two‐area restructured reheat thermal system and then to validate its excellence and extensibility, the study is protracted to restructured two‐area thermal‐hydro system. Extensive analysis of the findings establishes that the dynamic performance of the COC‐PIDN controller is more valuable than the OC and COC‐PID approaches. The results of COC‐PIDN get further improved in presence of redox flow battery. Finally, the sensitivity analysis as well the acquired results with the COC‐PIDN controller with system nonlinearities demonstrate its robustness.
Connecting DSM‐5 and ICD‐11 trait domains with schema therapy and dialectical behavior therapy constructs
Authors: Tracy Mikaela , Sharpe Louise , Bach Bo , Tiliopoulos Niko
Published: December 2022

The DSM‐5 Section III alternative model of personality disorder (AMPD) and the International Classification of Diseases – 11th Edition's (ICD‐11) personality disorder classification allow clinicians to identify individual trait domains in which people score highly. However, how these domains relate to constructs associated with efficacious treatment approaches is unclear. The current study aimed to determine whether constructs from two evidence‐based treatments (schema therapy [ST] and dialectical behavior therapy [DBT]) were associated with maladaptive personality traits in a way consistent with underlying theories. We examined associations between ST constructs, DBT skill use and maladaptive coping styles, and personality traits in a sample of 525 adults. Bivariate intercorrelations and a series of multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the associations. As hypothesized, maladaptive coping was strongly associated with all trait domains. Surprisingly, poor DBT‐skill use was only associated with negative affectivity, detachment, and disinhibition trait domains. Specific schema domains were associated with each personality trait domain, supporting trait domain‐schema domain specificity. The current study highlights the potential clinical utility of the AMPD and ICD‐11 trait models and ultimately contributes to the dearth of evidence on their likely usefulness for treatment selection, planning, and applications.
Amorphous silicon carbonitride (a‐SiCN) thin film coatings by remote plasma chemical vapor deposition using organosilicon precursor: Effect of substrate temperature
Authors: Wrobel Aleksander M. , Uznanski Pawel
Published: December 2022

The study on amorphous hydrogenated silicon carbonitride (a‐SiCN) thin film coatings produced by remote plasma chemical vapor deposition from 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisilazane as single‐source compound is reviewed. The RP was generated using three extreme compositions of the H2 + N2 upstream‐gas mixture with a different nitrogen content CN2 = [N2]/([H2] + [N2]). The films were deposited using plasma generated from with pure hydrogen (CN2 = 0), pure nitrogen (CN2 = 1), and a mixture of H2 + N2 with a nitrogen content of CN2 = 0.88, corresponding to the maxima present in the NH hydronitrene emission intensity curve and film deposition yield curve. The films deposited at different substrate temperatures TS varied in the range of 30–400°C were characterized in terms of their deposition rate and yield, chemical structure, surface roughness, density, refractive index, hardness, elasticity, resistance to wear, and friction coefficient. The relationships of the structure and properties of the films controlled by the substrate temperature were determined and discussed. In view of their good mechanical properties, a‐SiCN films produced using hydrogen as plasma feeding gas appear to be very excellent coatings for improving surface properties of engineering materials and for many other advanced technological applications.
Combination with vorinostat enhances the antitumor activity of cisplatin in castration‐resistant prostate cancer by inhibiting DNA damage repair pathway and detoxification of GSH
Authors: Chang Taihao , Lian Zhenpeng , Ma Shenfei , Liang Zhengxin , Ma Xudong , Wen Xiaodong , Wang Yanming , Liu Ranlu
Published: December 2022

Background

Like DNA methylation, histone modifications are considered important processes for epigenetic alterations in gene function, and abnormally high expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) plays a key role in many human diseases. In addition to regulating the acetylation levels of histone and non‐histone proteins and gene transcription, HDAC inhibitors as antitumor drugs can also affect the DNA damage repair (DDR) pathway in tumor cells. Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most heritable malignancies in which DDR pathway defects can be detected in a considerable proportion of cases. Such defects are more prevalent in castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and are highly enriched in metastatic lesions. There is currently evidence that DDR pathway‐deficient PCa is associated with high‐risk biological behaviors and response sensitivity to platinum‐based chemotherapy. Platinum‐based drugs have been used in multiple clinical trials as monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of CRPC.

Methods

This study evaluated the combined anticancer effect of (cisplatin) CDDP and the HDAC inhibitors vorinostat (SAHA) on three androgen‐dependent cell lines PC‐3, DU‐145, and C4‐2B in vitro. The efficacy and safety of SAHA combined with CDDP in the treatment of CRPC were further verified through animal experiments.

Results

The combination of the two drugs increases cytotoxic effects by increasing DNA damage. Our results showed that the SAHA could not only reduce the expression of homologous recombinant repair proteins BRCA2, BRCA1, PARP1, and RAD51, but also decrease enzymes that Reduce the key enzymes of GSH biosynthesis, GSS and GCLC, and GSTP1 which can catalyze the binding of GSH to cisplatin. The intracellular GSH level also decreased with the increase of SAHA concentration, at the same time, the content of intracellular Pt element.

Conclusion

The combination of CDDP and SAHA can produce synergistic anticancer effects in androgen‐independent PCa cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results open up a new avenue for the effective treatment of CRPC. To optimize the chemotherapy regimen for patients with advanced PCa, it is necessary to further study the molecular mechanism of platinum drugs, HDAC inhibitors, and their combined action.
Dihydroartemisinin broke the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment by inhibiting YAP1 expression to enhance anti‐PD‐1 efficacy
Authors: Peng Qing , Li Shenghao , Shi Xinli , Guo Yinglin , Hao Liyuan , Zhang Zhiqin , Ji Jingmin , Zhao Yanmeng , Li Caige , Xue Yu , Liu Yiwei
Published: December 2022

The efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 therapy is not as expected in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). YAP1 was overexpressed and activated in HCC. The mechanism of YAP1 in HCC immune escape is unclear. Anti‐PD‐1 treatment increased YAP1 expression in liver tumor cells, and exhausted CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the blood and spleen of liver tumor mice. YAP1 knockdown suppressed PD‐L1 expression, which was involved in JAK1/STAT1, 3 pathways. Moreover, Yap1 knockout elevated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in liver tumor niche. Consistently, verteporfin, YAP1 inhibitor, decreased TGF‐β and IFN‐γ in liver tumor niche and exhausted CD8+ T cell in the spleen. DHA suppressed YAP1 expression and break immune evasion in liver tumor niche, characterized by decreased PD‐L1 in liver tumor cells and increased CD8+ T cell infiltration. Furthermore, DHA combined with anti‐PD‐1 treatment promoted CD4+ T cell infiltration in the spleen and CD8+ T cell in tumor tissues of mice. In summary, YAP1 knockdown in liver tumor cells suppressed PD‐L1 expression and recruited cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), leading to break immune evasion in tumor niche. Mechanistically, YAP1 knockdown suppressed PD‐L1 expression, which was involved in JAK1/STAT1, 3 pathways. Finally, DHA inhibited YAP1 expression, which not only inhibited liver tumor proliferation but also break the immunosuppressive niche in liver tumor tissues and improve the effect of anti‐PD‐1 therapy.
Constrained control for systems on matrix Lie groups with uncertainties
Authors: Shi Chuanbeibei , Yu Yushu , Ma Yuwei , Chang Dong Eui
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the constrained control of systems evolving on matrix Lie groups with uncertainties is considered. The proposed methodology is composed of a nominal Model Predictive Control (MPC), and a feedback controller. The previous work on the control of systems on manifolds is applied to design the nominal MPC, which generates the nominal trajectory. In the nominal MPC, the state and input constraints on the Lie group are transformed into the constraints on the Euclidean space. While to deal with uncertainties, the feedback control used to track the nominal trajectory is designed directly on the Lie group. The tracking error in the feedback control is proved to be bounded in invariant sets, which are further used to revise the constraints in nominal MPC. We prove that the input‐to‐state stability of the entire system under the proposed control methodology with respect to the disturbances can be achieved. The proposed methodology is applied to the constrained attitude control of rigid bodies with uncertainties. In the application example, the detailed mathematical proof and the comparative numerical simulation are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed methodology.
Environmental governance, local government competition and industrial green transformation: Evidence from China's sustainable development practice
Authors: Yang Luxin , Liu Yucheng , Deng Huihui
Published: December 2022

The rapid development of China's economy has also led to serious environmental problems, which have seriously restricted China's sustainable development. To this end, the Chinese government has continued to explore environmental governance. So, can environmental governance policies promote industrial green transformation, so as to achieve the goal of sustainable development? Will environmental policy competition among local governments have an impact on them? These issues are the focus of this article. Based on the provincial panel data of China from 2006 to 2021, this article empirically analyzes the relationship between environmental governance, local government competition, and industrial green transformation. The results found that there was a “U” type nonlinear relationship between environmental governance and industrial green transformation. On the whole, most regions of China are still in the development stage where environmental governance is not conducive to industrial green transformation. There is competition for environmental governance policies among local governments in China, and the characteristics of “race to the bottom” are more significant. In the East developed areas, there is a more significant “yardstick competition” game state. In the Midwest undeveloped areas, it is manifested as competition for resources by deregulation of the environment, thereby promoting short‐term economic growth. In addition, local protection behaviors negatively regulate the impact of environmental governance on industrial green transformation, that is, inhibiting local industrial green transformation by causing labor market mismatch. This study can provide valuable insights for policymakers aiming to adopt measures to achieve the sustainable development of the economy and environment.
Failure characteristics of reinforced concrete circular slabs subsequently subjected to fire exposure and static load: An experimental study
Authors: Arano Barenys Assis , Colombo Matteo , Martinelli Paolo , Øverli Jan Arve , Hendriks Max A. N. , Kanstad Terje , di Prisco Marco
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the effect of fire on the ultimate load‐bearing capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) slabs. The structural response of RC circular specimens subjected to static load conditions after exposure to a hydrocarbon fire on one side of the specimen was examined. Two fire exposure times were considered (60 and 120 min) in addition to reference non‐exposed specimens. The static response was evaluated in the damaged specimens in residual conditions after natural cooling from the elevated temperatures. The temperature distribution across the thickness of the slabs and their load–displacement response was measured. The decrease in the stiffness of the slabs due to the thermal exposure was studied by means of direct ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements made before and after the fire tests. The decrease in global stiffness was partially accounted for by UPV measurements. The experimental results showed two peaks in the load‐deflection response of the slabs. The first peak was related to an arching mechanism introduced by the specific set‐up used. The second peak, corresponding to the ultimate load, occurred due to tensile membrane action at large deflections. While the former was strongly affected by the fire exposure, with the load being halved after the 120‐min exposure, the latter was not greatly affected by either the presence of fire or the exposure time. Simplified mechanical models were used to explain the behavior of the RC slabs during the tests.
A new intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT)‐based fluorescent probe for selective visualization of cyanide ion
Authors: Bai Cuibing , Zhang Jie , Ma Wen , Yao Junxiong , Meng Qian , Xia Zhenni , Chen Dashuo , He Shuping , Zhang Lin , Qu Changqing , Qiao Rui , Yang Zhen , Huang Wei
Published: December 2022

Fluorescent probes for detection of CN− still have many limitations, such as small Stokes shift, irreversible, and background interference, which hamper their applications for on‐site detection and bioimaging of CN−. In this work, we design a new CN−‐activatable fluorescent probe (named AHMM) containing an ESIPT (excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer) and hydrogen bond features, which show a large Stokes shift (225 nm) and molecular structural reversible detection. The probe AHMM exhibits an excellent selectivity for CN− without any interference from other anions in aqueous DMSO system. Furthermore, the mechanism of the interaction of AHMM with CN− is concluded by various experiments. The limit of detection of AHMM for CN− is calculated as low as 4.47 × 10−8 M, lower than the concentration of CN− deemed acceptable by WHO (World Health Organization). AHMM can recognize CN− in tap water quantitatively and on‐site by a smartphone APP. Moreover, food samples such as almond and cassava including CN− are visualized by fluorescence imaging. In addition, the probe shows practical applications of CN− imaging in cells and mice. This concept can be applied for designing multifunctional fluorescent probes with ESIPT and reversible characteristics for detection of CN−.
Software Model Checking: 20 Years and Beyond
Authors: Beyer Dirk , Podelski Andreas
Published: December 2022

We give an overview of the development of software model checking, a general approach to algorithmic program verification that integrates static analysis, model checking, and deduction. We start with a look backwards and briefly cover some of the important steps in the past decades. The general approach has become a research topic on its own, with a wide range of tools that are based on the approach. Therefore, we discuss the maturity of the research area of software model checking in terms of looking at competitions, at citations, and most importantly, at the tools that were build in this area: we count 76 verification systems for software written in C or Java. We conclude that software model checking has quickly grown to a significant field of research with a high impact on current research directions and tools in software verification.
An Assessment of the Serum Activity of ADH and ALDH in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Wolszczak-Biedrzycka Blanka , Bieńkowska Anna , Zasimowicz Elżbieta , Biedrzycki Grzegorz , Dorf Justyna , Jelski Wojciech
Published: December 2022

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC; previously known as primary biliary cirrhosis) is a chronic inflammation-induced cholestatic process in the liver. Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) are observed in around 90% of patients, which suggests that PBC is an autoimmune disease. Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), ADH isoenzymes and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) are localized in the liver, and they are useful markers of liver dysfunction. In this study, the activity of total ADH, ADH isoenzymes and ALDH was evaluated in the blood serum of patients with PBC. The experimental group comprised 50 PBC patients, both male and female, aged 28–67. The control group consisted of 50 healthy subjects, both male and female, aged 25–65. The serum activity of class I ADH, class II ADH and ALDH was measured by spectrofluorophotometry, whereas total ADH and class III ADH activity was determined by photometry methods. The activity of class I ADH and total ADH was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.001). An increase in class I ADH and total ADH activity indicates that the isoenzyme class I ADH is released by compromised liver cells and can be useful diagnostic markers of PBC.
Canonical Quantization of the Electromagnetic Field in Arbitrary $$\xi $$-Gauge
Authors: Falceto Fernando
Published: December 2022

We carry out the canonical quantization of the electromagnetic field in arbitrary $$\xi $$
ξ
-gauge and compute its propagator. In this way we fill a gap in the literature and clarify some existing confusion about Feynman $$\textrm{i}\epsilon $$

i
ϵ

prescription for the propagator of the electromagnetic field. We also discuss the BRST quantization and investigate the apparent singularities present in the theory when the gauge parameter $$\xi $$
ξ
takes the value −1. We find that this is a mere artifact due to the choice of basic modes and show that in the appropriate basis the commutation relations and the BRST transformation are, in fact, independent of the gauge parameter. The latter only appears as the coefficient of a BRST exact term in the Hamiltonian, which constitutes an extremely simple proof of the independence of any physical process on the gauge parameter $$\xi $$
ξ
.
Imaging urolithiasis: complications and interventions in children
Authors: Woźniak Magdalena Maria , Mitek-Palusińska Joanna
Published: December 2022

Urolithiasis affects people in all age groups, but over the last decades there has been an increasing incidence in children. Typical symptoms include abdominal or flank pain with haematuria; in acute cases dysuria, fever or vomiting also occur. Ultrasound is considered the modality of choice in paediatric urolithiasis because it can be used to identify most clinically relevant stones. Complementary imaging modalities such as conventional radiographs or non-contrast computed tomography should be limited to specific clinical situations. Management of kidney stones includes dietary, pharmacological and urological interventions, depending on stone size, location or type, and the child’s condition. With a very high incidence of underlying metabolic abnormalities and significant recurrence rates in paediatric urolithiasis, thorough metabolic evaluation and follow-up examination studies are of utmost importance.
Molecular response patterns in relapsed/refractory AML patients treated with selinexor and chemotherapy
Authors: Klement Piroska , Fiedler Walter , Gabdoulline Razif , Dallmann Louisa-Kristin , Wienecke Clara Philine , Schiller Johannes , Kandziora Christian , Teich Katrin , Heida Bennett , Büttner Konstantin , Brandes Maximilian , Funke Carolin , Wichmann Martin , Othman Basem , Chromik Joerg , Amberg Stefanie , Kebenko Maxim , Schlipfenbacher Vera , Wilke Anne Christine , Modemann Franziska , Janning Melanie , Serve Hubert , Bokemeyer Carsten , Theile Susann , Deppermann Ute , Kranich Anne L. , Ganser Arnold , Thol Felicitas , Heuser Michael
Published: December 2022

Relapse in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is common and is associated with a dismal prognosis. Treatment options are limited and the understanding of molecular response patterns is still challenging. We analyzed the clonal response patterns of 15 patients with relapsed/refractory AML treated with selinexor in a phase II trial (SAIL). DNA was analyzed at three time points and showed a decline of mutated alleles in FLT3, SF3B1, and TP53 under SAIL treatment. Overall survival (OS) was similar between patients with declining versus persisting clones. We show an interesting long-term course of a patient who relapsed after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloHCT) with SF3B1- and SRSF2-mutated AML and received selinexor as maintenance treatment for 4 years. Measurable residual disease (MRD) remained detectable for 2 weeks after donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) in this patient and then remained negative under selinexor maintenance treatment. Selinexor was tolerated well and was stopped after 4 years of SAIL treatment. We present an exploratory study and identify subclonal patterns of patients treated with selinexor.
Deep learning assisted contrast-enhanced CT–based diagnosis of cervical lymph node metastasis of oral cancer: a retrospective study of 1466 cases
Authors: Xu Xiaoshuai , Xi Linlin , Wei Lili , Wu Luping , Xu Yuming , Liu Bailve , Li Bo , Liu Ke , Hou Gaigai , Lin Hao , Shao Zhe , Su Kehua , Shang Zhengjun
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Lymph node (LN) metastasis is a common cause of recurrence in oral cancer; however, the accuracy of distinguishing positive and negative LNs is not ideal. Here, we aimed to develop a deep learning model that can identify, locate, and distinguish LNs in contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) images with a higher accuracy.

Methods

The preoperative CECT images and corresponding postoperative pathological diagnoses of 1466 patients with oral cancer from our hospital were retrospectively collected. In stage I, full-layer images (five common anatomical structures) were labeled; in stage II, negative and positive LNs were separately labeled. The stage I model was innovatively employed for stage II training to improve accuracy with the idea of transfer learning (TL). The Mask R-CNN instance segmentation framework was selected for model construction and training. The accuracy of the model was compared with that of human observers.

Results

A total of 5412 images and 5601 images were labeled in stage I and II, respectively. The stage I model achieved an excellent segmentation effect in the test set (AP50-0.7249). The positive LN accuracy of the stage II TL model was similar to that of the radiologist and much higher than that of the surgeons and students (0.7042 vs. 0.7647 (p = 0.243), 0.4216 (p < 0.001), and 0.3629 (p < 0.001)). The clinical accuracy of the model was highest (0.8509 vs. 0.8000, 0.5500, 0.4500, and 0.6658 of the Radiology Department).

Conclusions

The model was constructed using a deep neural network and had high accuracy in LN localization and metastasis discrimination, which could contribute to accurate diagnosis and customized treatment planning.

Key Points

• Lymph node metastasis is not well recognized with modern medical imaging tools.

• Transfer learning can improve the accuracy of deep learning model prediction.

• Deep learning can aid the accurate identification of lymph node metastasis.
Comparison of PD-L1 expression in squamous cell cancer of unknown primary and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Schmidl Benedikt , Voßenkämper Kim-Aylin , Stark Leonhard , Boxberg Melanie , Stögbauer Fabian , Feigl Katharina , Winter Christof , Pickhard Anja , Wollenberg Barbara , Wirth Markus
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The tumorigenesis of squamous cell cancer of unknown primary (SCCUP) in the head and neck area has not been decoded so far, while poor survival rates and limited therapeutic options pose a serious challenge. The aim of this project was to investigate immunological characteristics of SCCUPs and compare them to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

PD-L1 expression (TC) was examined by immunohistochemistry in 50 lymph node metastases of SCCUP and 47 primaries of OPSCC. CD3 + and CD8 + lymphocytic infiltration was measured in 5 high power fields. Expression of p16 and HPV ISH were assessed.

Results

SCCUP demonstrated a significantly higher expression of PD-L1 than OPSCC. In p16-negative SCCUPs PD-L1 proved to be an independent prognostic factor to prioritize high-risk patients.

Conclusions

Immunologic differences between SCCUP and OPSCC were detected. A higher PD-L1 expression in SCCUP could potentially facilitate further evaluation of checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Clinical characteristics of patients with epiretinal membrane-Foveoschisis
Authors: Hetzel Annegret , Neubauer Jonas , Gelisken Faik
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical and morphological characteristics of epiretinal membrane (ERM)-Foveoschisis.

Methods

Medical charts of 2088 patients diagnosed with idiopathic ERM were screened and eyes with ERM-Foveoschisis were included. All eyes underwent a complete ophthalmological examination including spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). OCT features and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were analysed. ERM-Foveoschisis was defined as open, closed, elevated or flat based on the OCT features. Ellipsoidal zone (EZ) abnormality, intraretinal cystoid spaces, central foveal thickness (CFT), posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and lens status were assessed.

Results

One hundred-sixty-six patients (175 eyes) (72% female, mean age 70.46 years) were included. Incidence of ERM-Foveoschisis was 6.7%. Open type was seen in 86.8% and had a significantly better mean BCVA than closed type (p = 0.01). No statistically significant difference of mean BCVA was noted between the elevated and flat types. Mean BCVA was significantly lower in eyes with EZ abnormality (p = 0.03) and eyes with intraretinal cystoid spaces (p = 0.02). Patients with ‘closed’ ERM-Foveoschisis showed a significant higher median CFT than ‘open’ ERM-Foveoschisis (respectively, 364 µm and 176 µm, p < 0.001). A total of 81.9% eyes had PVD.

Conclusion

We differentiated four morphological types of ERM-Foveoschisis based on the OCT examination. Closed ERM-Foveoschisis presented with a higher CFT and lower BCVA than the open type. ERM-Foveoschisis with cystoid intraretinal spaces presented with a lower BCVA. The impact of the morphological types of the ERM-Foveoschisis on the clinical course and for therapy decision requires further long-term studies.
CACYBP knockdown inhibits progression of prostate cancer via p53
Authors: Li Qiang , Liu Zhili , Ma Luping , Yin Weiqi , Zhang Kan
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of genitourinary system in men. CACYCLIN binding protein (CACYBP) is involved in the progression of a variety of cancers. The aim of this study was to explore the expression and functional role of CACYBP in PC.

Methods

The expression of CACYBP in PC was evaluated by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and qRT-PCR. Subsequently, we established lentivirus-mediated CACYBP knockdown in PC cell lines. The biological roles of CACYBP on proliferation, apoptosis, cycle distribution, migration and tumor formation of PC were investigated by Celigo cell counting assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay, wound-healing assay and mice xenograft models, respectively.

Results

CACYBP was highly expressed in PC and was positively correlated with the pathological grade of PC patients. Knockdown of CACYBP inhibited proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, arrested cell cycle in G2 and suppressed migration of PC cell lines in vitro. In addition, CACYBP knockdown weakened the tumor growth of PC in vivo. Moreover, addition of p53 inhibitor could effectively alleviate the inhibitory effect of CACYBP knockdown on cell activity.

Conclusion

This study revealed that knockdown of CACYBP inhibited the proliferation, migration and tumorigenicity of PC, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of PC.
DOAC in the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism: a retrospective cohort study beyond the guidelines
Authors: Cominacini Mattia , Suardi Silvia , Ferrari Giulia , Ciresa Roberto , Tosi Federica , De Marchi Sergio , Valenti Maria Teresa , Dalle Carbonare Luca
Published: December 2022

Background

The emerging use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in the management of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAT) is significantly improving therapeutic adherence and quality of life. Despite this, many conditions can restrict the therapeutic index of these drugs. For all these reasons the latest guidelines recommend the use of heparins in the treatment of CAT as the preferred treatment in some clinical settings.

Objectives

We evaluated the efficacy and the safety of DOAC, in terms of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and major bleeding (MB), as a composite primary outcome. Mortality and clinically relevant non-major bleeding (CRNMB) were evaluated as secondary outcomes.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study on 209 patients to compare the effects of DOAC versus heparins for the treatment of CAT. 127 patients with a high bleeding risk neoplasia were enrolled.

Results

A primary-outcome event occurred in 11.3% of patients treated with heparins and in 10.5% treated with DOAC (Relative Risk 0.92; 95% CI 0.42–2.01, p = 0.84). Recurrent VTE occurred in 6.1% in the heparins group and in 8.4% in the DOAC group (RR 1.37; 95% CI 0.51–3.64, p = 0.52). MB occurred in 5.2% in the heparins group and in 2.1% in the DOAC group (RR 0.40; 95% CI 0.08–1.93, p = 0.25).

Conclusions

DOAC seem to be as effective and safe as heparins in the treatment of CAT. Most bleeding events occurred in patients with high-risk bleeding neoplasms regardless of the type of anticoagulant. Considering the characteristics and satisfaction of patients using DOAC in this setting, this approach should be considered as a first choice.
Quantification of physical and chemical paleoweathering at the microscale: a new concept
Authors: Liang Fei , Hinderer Matthias , Hornung Jens
Published: December 2022

Weathering is a basic geological process that refers to the breaking down or dissolving of rocks and minerals on the surface of the earth. However, weathering characteristics may vary among different lithologies even under similar conditions. To evaluate and quantitatively compare the physical and chemical index of alteration among different types of rock, new concepts of paleo-weathering such as the absolute weathering degree and the relative weathering degree are proposed for microscale studies. For the quantification of physical weathering, the index of physical weathering (IPW) is introduced. The index is defined as the ratio between the area of the fractures formed during different weathering stages and the total area of the thin section under the polarizing microscope and it is corrected by the corresponding rock strength. To quantitatively compare the chemical weathering intensity among different types of rock and minerals, the following two new concepts are introduced: total weathering mass (TWM) and chemical weathering ability (CWA). While the TWM is an integral function of weathering rate and weathering time for minerals, the CWA is the sum of the TWM of each mineral in rock within a certain time period. As a case study, this concept is applied to the weathered crystalline basement below the post-Variscan nonconformity in southwestern Germany. The petrography and geochemistry of three drillings penetrating the nonconformity were investigated by polarizing microscopy, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The investigations illustrate how to better extract quantitative information for both, physical and chemical weathering.
Repositioning synthetic glucocorticoids in psychiatric disease associated with neural autoantibodies: a narrative review
Authors: Hansen Niels , Neyazi Alexandra , Lüdecke Daniel , Hasan Alkomiet , Wiltfang Jens , Malchow Berend ,   the CAP (Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis in Psychiatry) Consortium
Published: December 2022

Synthetic glucocorticoids (sGCs) are a well-investigated and standard drug therapy for disorders associated with CNS inflammation. Less is known about treating psychiatric disorders associated with neural autoantibodies. Our aim is to elucidate the repositioning of sGCs in psychiatric diseases that co-exist with neural autoantibodies. We used PubMed to identify articles for this narrative review. To our knowledge, no randomized, placebo-controlled trials have yet been conducted on applying sGC to treat neural autoantibody-associated psychiatric disorders. We describe initial results of cohort studies and single cases or case series often associated with autoantibodies against membrane-surface antigens demonstrating a largely beneficial response to sGCs either as monotherapy or polytherapy together with other immunosuppressive agents. However, sGCs may be less efficient in patients with psychiatric diseases associated with autoantibodies directed against intracellular antigens. These results reveal potential benefits of the novel usage of sGCs for the indication of neural autoantibody-associated psychiatric disease. Further large-scale randomized, placebo-controlled trials are needed to discover whether sGCs are safe, well tolerated, and beneficial in subgroups of neural autoantibody-associated psychiatric diseases.
Surface properties and initial bacterial biofilm growth on 3D-printed oral appliances: a comparative in vitro study
Authors: Wuersching Sabina Noreen , Westphal David , Stawarczyk Bogna , Edelhoff Daniel , Kollmuss Maximilian
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To investigate the initial bacterial adhesion on 3D-printed splint materials in relation to their surface properties.

Materials and methods

Specimens of five printable splint resins (SHERAprint-ortho plus UV, NextDent Ortho Rigid, LuxaPrint Ortho Plus, V-Print Splint, KeySplint Soft), one polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) block for subtractive manufacturing (Astron CLEARsplint Disc), two conventional powder/liquid PMMA materials (FuturaGen, Astron CLEARsplint), and one polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) thermoplastic sheet for vacuum forming (Erkodur Thermoforming Foil) were produced and finished. Surface roughness Ra was determined via contact profilometry. Surface morphology was examined under a scanning electron microscope. Multi-species bacterial biofilms were grown on entire splints. Total biofilm mass and viable bacterial counts (CFU/ml) within the biofilms were determined. Statistical analyses were performed with a one-way ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc test, and Pearson’s test (p < 0.05).

Results

Astron CLEARsplint and KeySplint Soft specimens showed the highest surface roughness. The mean total biofilm mass on KeySplint Soft splints was higher compared to all other materials (p < 0.05). Colony-forming unit per milliliter on FuturaGen, Astron CLEARsplint, and KeySplint Soft splints was one log scale higher compared to all other materials. The other four printable resins displayed overall lower Ra, biofilm mass, and CFU/ml. A positive correlation was found between Ra and CFU/ml (r = 0.69, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The 3D-printed splints showed overall favorable results regarding surface roughness and bacterial adhesion. Thermoplastic materials seem to display a higher surface roughness, making them more susceptible to microbial adhesion.

Clinical relevance

The development of caries and gingivitis in patients with oral appliances may be affected by the type of material.
Large floodplain river restoration in New Zealand: synthesis and critical evaluation to inform restoration planning and research
Authors: Abell Jonathan M. , Pingram Michael A. , Özkundakci Deniz , David Bruno O. , Scarsbrook Mike , Wilding Thomas , Williams Alicia , Noble Matt , Brasington James , Perrie Alton
Published: December 2022

New Zealand (NZ) has a diversity of large river ecosystems that provide essential ecosystem services but are impaired by multiple ecological impacts. River restoration is an active field worldwide and there is good potential for river restoration practitioners in NZ to draw on lessons from elsewhere, although there is also a need to tailor approaches to national and local contexts. Here, we provide a critical review of large floodplain river restoration to guide environmental management in NZ and inform research and management priorities. The review is structured using a driver-pressure-state-impact-response framework, with a focus on responses, i.e. large river restoration methods. Thirty-one river restoration methods aligned with 14 broad restoration goals were evaluated collaboratively and semi-quantitatively. Evaluation outcomes are presented to inform regional and national scale restoration planning. Recommendations were identified to address eight key knowledge or policy gaps: (1) understanding cumulative impacts facing large river systems, (2) prioritising restoration measures at the landscape-scale, (3) promoting lateral connectivity in large river floodplains, (4) incorporating knowledge of geomorphology into river management, (5) enhancing understanding of cultural priorities and community aspirations, (6) assessing how costs and benefits of river restoration vary among timescales, (7) understanding the feasibility of restoration methods that have received limited application in NZ and (8) improving protection of threatened native fish species.
Onion (Allium cepa) improves Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) resistance to saprolegniasis (Saprolegnia parasitica) and reduces immunosuppressive effects of cadmium
Authors: Elgendy Mamdouh Y. , Ali Shimaa E. , Abdelsalam Mohamed , Abd El-Aziz Tamer H. , Abo-Aziza Faten , Osman Hussien A. , Authman Mohammad M. N. , Abbas Wafaa T.
Published: December 2022

The present study investigated the protective effects of dietary Allium cepa against Saprolegnia parasitica infections and the amelioration of cadmium-induced immunosuppression in Oreochromis niloticus. Saprolegnia isolates were recovered during an outbreak of saprolegniasis in farmed O. niloticus raised in a poor aquatic environment. Isolates were identified phenotypically as S. parasitica. Results were confirmed further by ITS gene sequencing. Four fish groups were kept in water with cadmium (1.5 mg/L) and fed for 30 days on a diet supplemented with crude or alcoholic extracts of A. cepa using two concentrations (0.5% or 1%). Positive (with Cd) and negative (without Cd) control fish groups were given the basal diet. The 96 h LC50 value of Cd in tilapia was (15.1 mg/L Cd). Fish exposed to Cd showed poor growth performance parameters, abnormal biochemical measurements, impaired immunological responses, and high oxidative stress indicators. Feeding tilapia on A. cepa-supplemented diets enhanced their growth performance (WG, SGR) and improved the nonspecific immune responses (WBCs, total protein, globulins, lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, and antiproteases). The inclusion of A. cepa in the diets reduced the oxidative stress (GST, SOD) and significantly decreased fish mortality after the challenge with S. parasitica. Dietary supplementation with A. cepa reduced cadmium accumulation in fish organs and up-regulated IL-1β and IFNɣ levels. The most favorable benefits were obtained by the addition of 0.5% A. cepa extract. Our results highlight the immunostimulatory properties of A. cepa dietary supplementation for farmed tilapia and recommend its use prophylactically to control saprolegniasis and mitigate cadmium adverse effects.
Argumentation and Identity: A Normative Evaluation of the Arguments of Delegates to the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference
Authors: Hinton Martin
Published: December 2022

Arguments may sometimes be advanced with a non-standard function. One such function, it is suggested, is the expression of identity, a practice which may play a significant role in political representation. This paper sets out to examine a number of short addresses given at the High-Level segment of the Cop26 conference, which are considered to contain instances of such argumentation. Their content is analysed and evaluated by means of the Comprehensive Assessment Procedure for Natural Argumentation (CAPNA), and an attempt is made to highlight the purposes of the delegates in addressing the conference. At a more fundamental level, the goal of this work is to assess the possibility of identifying arguments as being meant largely as statements of identity or representation, and the suitability of the CAPNA or other norm-based systems for evaluating such discourse. The speakers studied include representatives from OPEC, the Trade Unions, and the leaders of Vietnam and Liechtenstein. Ultimately, the study concludes that while further work is necessary both on understanding the relationship between argument and identity in the political arena, and on the application of argument norms to representational discourse, evaluations of this kind are meaningful and informative.
Cellulose-based films with internal plasticization with epoxidized soybean oil
Authors: Rebelo Rafael C. , Ribeiro Diana C. M. , Pereira Patrícia , De Bon Francesco , Coelho Jorge F. J. , Serra Arménio C.
Published: December 2022

A process was developed combining two natural-based products to obtain bio-based films. Industrial cellulose pulp was dissolved and mixed with epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO), which acts as an internal plasticizer. A distillable and recyclable ionic liquid-based solvent was used to dissolve the cellulose. Appropriate distribution of the cellulose/ESBO solution on glass surfaces and careful regeneration of the cellulose enabled the development of solvent-free and flexible cellulose films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of the triglyceride structure and the absence of the epoxide ring in the films, confirming the chemical reaction between the hydroxyl and epoxide groups of cellulose. The resulting films were further characterized by scanning electron microscopy, dynamic scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry, and mechanical tensile tests. The films were also evaluated by contact angle measurement, swelling ability, in vitro degradability and cytotoxicity. The results showed that the presence of ESBO can adjust both the flexibility and hydrophilicity of the cellulose films, resulting in materials suitable for a variety of applications.
Comparative study for leaching processes of uranium, copper and cadmium from gibbsite ore material of Talet Seleim, Southwestern, Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Kassab Walaa A.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, leaching characteristics are presented, and a cost-effective process for extracting uranium, copper, and cadmium from Talet Seleim’s Gibbsite is developed. H2SO4 was chosen as the preferable leaching agent based on the agitation experiment’s findings. The leaching efficiencies of U, Cu, and Cd attained 95%, 90%, and 89%, respectively, under the investigated ideal circumstances. Kinetic study of leaching process proved diffusion controlling mechanisms with activation energies: 29.59, 29.30, and 34.84 kJ/mol, respectively. U was recovered using Amberlite IRA 400, while Cu and Cd were precipitated from Talet Seleim’s gibbsite’s sulphate leachate. Finally, the tentative treatment procedure's preliminary flowsheet was then given.
Magnetic cork particles as reinforcement in an epoxy resin: effect of size and amount on thermal properties
Authors: Abenojar J. , Lopez de Armentia S. , Barbosa A. Q. , Martinez M. A. , del Real J. C. , da Silva L. F. M. , Velasco F.
Published: December 2022

Natural brightness of epoxy adhesives can be reduced by adding cork. Besides, when cork was magnetized, it was possible to move them depending on the properties required in each section of the adhesive bond (PAT354/2019). The main objective of this work was to study possible changes in the thermal properties of the adhesive due to the addition of magnetic cork particles. If changes were significant, the use of magnetic cork particles would be compromised. To this end, natural cork particles and magnetic cork particles, with two different particle size (53–38 and 250–125 μm) and percentage (1 and 5 v/v%), were compared as reinforcement material. Magnetic cork was obtained by co-precipitated coating, according to patent number WO2019025651. The thermal properties studied by Differential Scanning Calorimetry were activation energy of curing reaction, glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal conductivity. Two different hardeners were studied and a factorial design (2k with k = 4) was carried out. It allowed to determine which variable or combination of variables had most impact on thermal properties. Results showed that the main parameter affecting thermal properties was the hardener, regardless of the kind of particle used. However, the presence of magnetic cork highlights further the differences found between hardeners. The conclusion of this study was that magnetic cork particles can be used as fillers in epoxy resin to make graded joints, since they do not affect the thermal properties of the resin.

Graphical abstract