bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband and High‐Performance Photodetector Fabricated Using Large Area and Transfer‐Free 2D–2D PtS2/MoS2 Heterostructure
Authors: Bassi Gaurav , Wadhwa Riya , Kumar Mukesh
Published: October 2023

2D transitional metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) materials have shown great potential in the optoelectronics and electronics field owing to their unique and favorable properties. However, developing high‐performance broadband photodetectors in bare TMDC material is impeded due to their limited absorption and poor charge‐carrier separation. The recent advancement in van der Waals heterostructure fabrication has exhibited a new path to improve the device performance. In the present work, a facile approach is presented to fabricate a large area of PtS2/MoS2 heterostructure, which demonstrates a broad spectral detection range from 400 to 1200 nm with high responsivity (30.2 A W−1) and detectivity (1.12 × 1013 Jones) even under near‐infrared (NIR) 900 nm light illumination at moderate bias. Moreover, the PtS2/MoS2 photodetector exhibits a much enhanced responsivity (97 times) and detectivity (33 times) compared with bare MoS2. A rise/fall time of 11 ms/10 ms for the PtS2/MoS2 device represents its fast response speed. The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements reveal the type‐I band alignment between the PtS2 and MoS2, which are further utilized to understand the charge carrier dynamics between the PtS2 and MoS2 interface. This work presents a simple strategy to synthesize scalable, high‐performance broadband photodetectors for future optoelectronics applications.
Stakeholder perspectives on the 2023 Ghana National Aquaculture Development Plan: An integration within the ecosystem approach framework
Authors: Zornu Jacob , Oyih Matthew , Binde Martin , Viglo Jennifer , Agbekpornu Hayford , Nkansa Mary , Tavornpanich Saraya , Norheim Kari , Brun Edgar , Cudjoe Kofitsyo S.
Published: October 2023

Aquaculture developmental plans represent a nation's determination for self‐reliance on domestic fish production through resilient aquaculture. This study reviewed the 2012 Ghana National Aquaculture Development Plan (GNADP) and sought inputs from industry stakeholders to inform GNADP 2023 using the ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA). In furtherance of this, we also investigated the justifications for antibiotic treatments including the assessment of the sector that is supposed to regulate aquaculture growth. The findings suggest that GNADP 2023 must be strategized to address industry sustainability bottlenecks identified as input availability and quality, permitting, regulation and enforcement, financing schemes and technical expertise. In terms of technical expertise, the inclusion of women in aquaculture can diversify the skill sets for the improvement of capacity and competence in good aquaculture practices and fish health management. Sector partnerships can aid in leveraging the expertise and resources among sectors to address persistent industry issues. The justifications for antibiotic treatments are disease management, prophylactics, antibiotic availability, application, and effectiveness, capacity and competence, including regulation and enforcement. This also comprised the sense of ownership and responsibility as farmers feel they must safeguard their investment. It is therefore important for farmers to pursue preventative aquaculture biosecurity measures. The government sector was selected predominantly to regulate aquaculture growth. We however recommended a participatory approach as this could facilitate peer regulation to enhance the regulation and enforcement of aquaculture regulations. The findings in this study are worth considering as it pioneers the adoption of the EAA framework for aquaculture developmental planning in Ghana.
On the Origin of the Non‐Arrhenius Na‐ion Conductivity in Na3OBr
Authors: Darminto Brigita , Rees Gregory J. , Cattermull John , Hashi Kenjiro , Diaz‐Lopez Maria , Kuwata Naoaki , Turrell Stephen J. , Milan Emily , Chart Yvonne , Di Mino Camilla , Jeong Lee Hyeon , Goodwin Andrew L. , Pasta Mauro
Published: October 2023

The sodium‐rich antiperovskites (NaRAPs) with composition Na3OB (B=Br, Cl, I, BH4, etc.) are a family of materials that has recently attracted great interest for application as solid electrolytes in sodium metal batteries. Non‐Arrhenius ionic conductivities have been reported for these materials, the origin of which is poorly understood. In this work, we combined temperature‐resolved bulk and local characterisation methods to gain an insight into the origin of this unusual behaviour using Na3OBr as a model system. We first excluded crystallographic disorder on the anion sites as the cause of the change in activation energy; then identified the presence of a poorly crystalline impurities, not detectable by XRD, and elucidated their effect on ionic conductivity. These findings improve understanding of the processing‐structure‐properties relationships pertaining to NaRAPs and highlight the need to determine these relationships in other materials systems, which will accelerate the development of high‐performance solid electrolytes.
Multifunctional, robust, and self‐healable polyurethane coatings cross‐linked by Diels–Alder reaction of calix[4] arenes containing furan groups
Authors: Fatahi Alireza , Mohammadi Abbas , Pournaghshaband Isfahani Ali
Published: October 2023

Self‐healing coatings can restore their performance after inevitable damage and are promising in the industry owing to their longer service life and lower repair cost. The use of Diels–Alder reaction bonds is well‐known to generate thermally self‐healing coatings. In this study, a series of cross‐linked self‐healing polyurethane (PU) coatings were synthesized through Diels–Alder reactions of p‐tert‐butyl calix[4]arene bearing furan groups (C4A‐FA) as a new chain extender and a bismaleimide (BMI) polyether amine as a Diels–Alder cross‐linking agent. Adding C4A‐FA to PUs improves their mechanical properties, thermal stability, and self‐healing ability. Additionally, these modifications can result in the formation of composite networks with PU that exhibit thermoreversibility and self‐healing properties. These changes have led to PUs containing modified calix[4]arene (C4A‐FA) having better properties compared with unmodified calix[4]arene PUs. The properties of prepared coatings were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), and tensile tests compared with a typical PU sample. The tensile and TGA results show an improvement in the thermal and mechanical properties of the polymers by increasing the C4A‐FA content. By replacing 15% of butandiol (BDO) with C4A‐FA in PU pure, the tensile strength increased from 1.69 to 5.14 MPa. Furthermore, adding diels–alder (DA) bonds enhanced the tensile strength to 10.49 MPa for PU‐C4A15‐DA. According to DSC results, a broad endothermic peak from nearly 80–140°C confirmed the retro‐DA reactions in the synthesized thermoreversible samples. The healing efficiency of the PU‐C4A15‐DA sample was obtained at 92.5% (measured by tensile test), which is the highest value among cross‐linked self‐healing PUs reported in the literature.
Quercetin‐loaded sodium alginate/collagen/h‐boron nitride potential wound dressings prepared using the Box‐Behnken experimental design
Authors: Çakıcı Gülşen Taşkın , Kaya Seçil , Doğan Sema Yiyit , Solak Ebru Kondolot
Published: October 2023

Background/Aims

Natural and synthetic biocompatible polymers have received significant attention in the pharmaceutical industry due to their rapid and effective healing properties in the wound healing process. The aim of this study was to optimize the extraction of onions, the preparation of sodium alginate/collagen/hydrogen boron nitride (NaAlg/Col/h‐BN) membranes using the Box‐Behnken experimental design, and determine the optimal conditions for quercetin release. The study also aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the prepared membranes and their therapeutic properties.

Methods and Results

The prepared membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier transform infrared (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Antimicrobial activities were tested against Gram‐negative (Gr‐) Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterobacter aerogenes, Gram‐positive (Gr+) Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231 pathogens. In vitro release studies were conducted to examine the therapeutic properties of the prepared membranes. The optimum conditions for the extraction of onions and the preparation of NaAlg/Col/h‐BN membranes were found to be EtOH = 75 mL, t = 2 h, T = 45°C, and NaAlg = 1.0 g, Col = 2.0 g, and h‐BN = 6% wt, respectively. The prepared membranes exhibited serious antimicrobial properties against S. aureus and C. albicans. The membranes also promoted the controlled release of quercetin for 24 h in vitro, indicating their potential as a new approach in wound treatment.

Conclusion

The study concludes that quercetin‐filled NaAlg/Col/h‐BN membranes have promising therapeutic properties for wound healing. The membranes exhibited significant antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and their controlled release of quercetin suggests their potential for use in wound healing applications.
Raman‐controlled pyruvate feeding to control metabolic activity and product quality in continuous biomanufacturing
Authors: Romann Patrick , Schneider Sebastian , Tobler Daniela , Jordan Martin , Perilleux Arnaud , Souquet Jonathan , Herwig Christoph , Bielser Jean‐Marc , Villiger Thomas K.
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite technological advances ensuring stable cell culture perfusion operation over prolonged time, reaching a cellular steady‐state metabolism remains a challenge for certain manufacturing cell lines. This study investigated the stabilization of a steady‐state perfusion process producing a bispecific antibody with drifting product quality attributes, caused by shifting metabolic activity in the cell culture.

Main methods

A novel on‐demand pyruvate feeding strategy was developed, leveraging lactate as an indicator for tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle saturation. Real‐time lactate monitoring was achieved through in‐line Raman spectroscopy, enabling accurate control at predefined target setpoints.

Major results

The implemented feedback control strategy resulted in a three‐fold reduction of ammonium accumulation and stabilized product quality profiles. Stable and flat glycosylation profiles were achieved with standard deviations below 0.2% for high mannose and fucosylation. Whereas galactosylation and sialylation were stabilized in a similar manner, varying lactate setpoints might allow for fine‐tuning of these glycan forms.

Implication

The Raman‐controlled pyruvate feeding strategy represents a valuable tool for continuous manufacturing, stabilizing metabolic activity, and preventing product quality drifting in perfusion cell cultures. Additionally, this approach effectively reduced high mannose, helping to mitigate increases associated with process intensification, such as extended culture durations or elevated culture densities.
What is an “early palliative care” intervention? A scoping review of controlled studies in oncology
Authors: Nadolny Stephan , Schildmann Eva , Gaßmann Elena S. , Schildmann Jan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Early palliative care (EPC) has been advocated to improve cancer patients' health. However, EPC differs with regard to its elements and target groups. It is not known which parts of EPC contribute to effectiveness for which patient group. This scoping review provides a structured analysis of EPC interventions and outcome measures.

Design

We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and CENTRAL up to February 2022. We included randomized controlled trials (RCT), nonrandomized trials, cohort studies (CS), and controlled before‐after studies of EPC in adult patients in English, Dutch, and German language. Interventions had to be self‐labeled as EPC. Screening and data extraction were performed by two raters. A structured analysis incorporating the TIDieR checklist was performed to describe the elements of the interventions.

Results

We screened 2651 articles, resulting in 40 articles being included: 34 studies were RCT and six studies were CS with a mean sample size of 208 patients. Patients with pancreatic (n = 10) and lung cancer (n = 9) were most often included. Studies reported different reference points for the onset of EPC such as time after diagnosis of incurable cancer (n = 18) or prognosis (n = 9). Thirteen studies provided information about elements of EPC and eight studies about the control intervention. Most frequent elements of EPC were symptom management (n = 28), case management (n = 16), and advance care planning (ACP; n = 15). Most frequently reported outcome measures were health‐related quality of life (n = 26), symptom intensity (n = 6), resource use, and the patient's mood (n = 4 each).

Conclusion

The elicited heterogeneity of ECP in combination with deficits of reporting are considerable barriers that should be addressed to further develop effective EPC interventions for different groups of cancer patients.
The influence of brand innovativeness on consumer purchase intentions towards domestic global brands in emerging markets: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Jun , Liang Mo , Wei Ye
Published: October 2023

There has been a growing trend of supporting domestic brands following the COVID‐19 pandemic, and some brands from emerging markets have accelerated their internationalisation over the past few years. This article investigates the influence of brand innovativeness on Chinese consumers' brand attitudes and purchase intentions towards domestic global brands in the digital device industry. A total of 220 undergraduate students from China took part in the survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis were used to test the hypotheses using structural equation modelling. The results showed that brand innovativeness stimulates purchase intentions through the mediation of  perceived brand globalness (PBG) and perceived brand localness (PBL). In addition, consumer ethnocentrism moderates the relationship between PBL and brand attitudes. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed herein.
Simulating the Moisture Diffusion and Evaporation of Sawdust during Convective Drying using the Spatial Reaction Engineering Approach
Authors: Shin Woo In , Foo Jia Wei , Putranto Aditya , Hii Ching Lik
Published: October 2023

The spatial reaction engineering approach (S‐REA) was used to simulate hot air drying of sawdust. The studies extended the previous work reported in literature where the sawdusts were dried using hot air at 70 °C, 80 °C, and 90 °C. The simulated results were found to agree well with the experimental moisture content (R2 > 0.98) and temperature (R2 > 0.82) profiles. In a further analysis using S‐REA, the spatial profiles of moisture content and vapor concentration were generated to understand better the physics behind. Simulation also revealed that the external mass transfer resistance was more dominant as compared to the internal diffusion resistance. The vapor concentrations were observed peaked at time range of about 10 800– 18 000 s and dropped thereafter upon further heating. This observation could be supported by the variation in the vapor effective diffusivities where peak diffusivity values typically occur after most of the moisture evaporates towards the end of drying.
A Detailed Discourse on the Epistemology of Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Singaraj Johnsi Maria , Mary Asha Shalini Vincent Janet , Bhaskara Poojitha , Dhamodharan Supreetha , Selvamani Oviyan , Palani Kavitha Nagarasampatti , Natesan Balasubramanian
Published: October 2023

The architecture of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries can hold five times more charge capacity compared to Li‐ion batteries. This review emphasizes the recent research findings on the desired loading of sulfur, the electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio, and a detailed view of the polysulfide shuttling effect. Problems with electrolyte stability are also discussed as well as the potential remedies they provided in various systems, as Li‐S batteries have great potential to surmount these critical issues by understanding the mechanism. Future scopes of Li‐S batteries can be progressively attained by optimizing the pore structure, designing highly conductive and strong sulfur confinement systems, and thereby pairing with anode materials to explore the possibility of innovative components for commercializing Li‐S batteries.
Fluorescent Phenotyping of Blood Cells Using a Differential Sensing Strategy: Differentiating Physiological Aging Stages and Neuro‐Degenerative Disease Drugs
Authors: Hoon Lee Jung , Young Yoon Hey , Lee Hye‐Jin , Min Kang Dong , Bak Yecheol , Biazruchka Ina , Lim Sungsu , Kim Sehoon , Kyung Kim Yun , Kim Dong‐Hoon , Lee Jun‐Seok
Published: October 2023

Blood continually contributes to the maintenance of homeostasis of the body and contains information regarding the health state of an individual. However, current hematological analyses predominantly rely on a limited number of CD markers and morphological analysis. In this work, differentially sensitive fluorescent compounds based on TCF scaffolds are introduced that are designed for fluorescent phenotyping of blood. Depending on their structures, TCF compounds displayed varied responses to reactive oxygen species, biothiols, redox‐related biomolecules, and hemoglobin, which are the primary influential factors within blood. Contrary to conventional CD marker‐based analysis, this unbiased fluorescent phenotyping method produces diverse fingerprints of the health state. Precise discrimination of blood samples from 37 mice was demonstrated based on their developmental stages, ranging from 10 to 19 weeks of age. Additionally, this fluorescent phenotyping method enabled the differentiation between drugs with distinct targets, serving as a simple yet potent tool for pharmacological analysis to understand the mode of action of various drugs.
Lanthanide Mimicking by Magnesium for Oxazolidinone Synthesis
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Mahata Biplab , Gayathridevi S. , Vipin Raj K. , Vanka Kumar , Sen Sakya S.
Published: October 2023

In the last decade, magnesium complexes have emerged as a viable alternative to transition‐metal catalysts for the hydrofunctionalization of unsaturated bonds. However, their potential for advanced catalytic reactions has not been thoroughly investigated. To address this gap, we have developed a novel magnesium amide compound (3) using a PNP framework that is both bulky and flexible. Our research demonstrates that compound 3 can effectively catalyze the synthesis of biologically significant oxazolidinone derivatives. This synthesis involves a tandem reaction of hydroalkoxylation and cyclohydroamination of isocyanate using propargyl alcohol. Furthermore, we conducted comprehensive theoretical calculations to gain insights into the reaction mechanism. It is important to note that these types of transformations have not been reported for magnesium and would significantly enhance the catalytic portfolio of the 7th most abundant element.
Progress in precision pediatric surgical oncology
Authors: Polites Stephanie F.
Published: October 2023

The increasingly targeted and personalized care of pediatric solid tumors extends to the surgical realm. Enhancing sentinel lymph node biopsy with fluorescence‐guided surgery is one example of this innovation in pediatric surgical oncology.
A phase 1 trial of 8‐chloro‐adenosine in relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia: An evaluation of safety and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Pullarkat Vinod , Chen Lisa S. , Palmer Joycelynne , Zhang Jianying , Synold Timothy W. , Buettner Ralf , Truong Nguyen Le Xuan , Marcucci Guido , Tsai Ni‐Chun , Wang Yan , O’Hearn James , Gandhi Varsha , Rosen Steven T.
Published: October 2023

Background

This study evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of 8‐chloro‐adenosine (8‐Cl‐Ado) in patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Methods

8‐Cl‐Ado was administered daily for 5 days; the starting dose was 100 mg/m2, the highest dose tested was 800 mg/m2. The end points were toxicity, disease response, and PK/PD measurements.

Results

The predominant nonhematologic toxicity was cardiac with grade ≥3 toxicity. Plasma PK in all patients suggested heterogeneity among patients, yet, some dose‐dependency for the accumulation of 8‐Cl‐Ado. Two 8‐Cl‐Ado metabolites accumulated at similar levels to 8‐Cl‐Ado. Cellular PK in eight patients indicated accumulation of 8‐Cl‐ATP, which was associated with AML blast cytoreduction in peripheral blood. The authors determined the RP2D of 8‐Cl‐Ado to be 400 mg/m2.

Conclusions

Given the cardiac adverse events observed, patients require monitoring for arrhythmias and QT interval during infusion. Although peripheral blood cytoreduction was observed, responses were transient, suggesting combination strategies will be required.
Long‐term risk of carotid stenosis and cerebrovascular disease after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
Authors: Carpenter David J. , Patel Pranalee , Niedzwiecki Donna , Dillon Mairead , Diaz Alexander K. , Kumar Abhishek , Mowery Yvonne M. , Crowell Kerri‐Anne , D’Anna Rachel , Wu Qiuwen , Rodrigues Anna , Wisdom Amy J. , Dorth Jennifer A. , Patel Pretesh R. , Shortell Cynthia K. , Brizel David M.
Published: October 2023

Background

Recipients of radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC) are at significantly increased risk for carotid artery stenosis (CAS) and cerebrovascular disease (CVD). We sought to determine (1) cumulative incidences of CAS and CVD among HNC survivors after RT and (2) whether CAS is associated with a RT dose response effect.

Methods

This single‐institution retrospective cohort study examined patients with nonmetastatic HNC who completed (chemo)RT from January 2000 through October 2020 and subsequently received carotid imaging surveillance ≤2 years following RT completion and, in the absence of CAS, every 3 years thereafter. Exclusion criteria included history of known CAS/CVD. Asymptomatic CAS was defined as ≥50% reduction of luminal diameter, symptomatic CAS as stroke or transient ischemic attack, and composite CAS as asymptomatic or symptomatic CAS.

Results

Of 628 patients undergoing curative intent RT for HNC, median follow‐up was 4.8 years (interquartile range, 2.6–8.3), with 97 patients followed ≥10 years. Median age was 61 years and 69% of patients received concurrent chemotherapy and 28% were treated postoperatively. Actuarial 10‐year incidences of asymptomatic, symptomatic, and composite CAS were 29.6% (95% CI, 23.9–35.5), 10.1% (95% CI, 7.0–13.9), and 27.2% (95% CI, 22.5–32.1), respectively. Multivariable Cox models significant association between asymptomatic CAS and absolute carotid artery volume receiving ≥10 Gy (per mL: hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.02–1.16).

Conclusions

HNC survivors are at high risk for post‐RT CAS. A dose response effect was observed for asymptomatic CAS at doses as low as 10 Gy.

Plain Language Summary

Recipients of radiation therapy for head and neck cancer are at significantly increased risk for carotid artery stenosis and cerebrovascular disease. However, carotid artery screening is not routinely performed among head and neck survivors following radiation therapy.

In this single‐institution retrospective cohort study, patients with head and neck cancer were initially screened for carotid artery stenosis ≤2 years following radiation therapy completion, then every 3 years thereafter.

The 10‐year actuarial incidence of carotid artery stenosis was >25% and stroke/transient ischemic attack >10%. Multivariable analysis demonstrated significant associations between asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis and artery volumes receiving ≥10 Gy.
Enhanced capsule network‐based executable files malware detection and classification—deep learning approach
Authors: Shelar Manoj D. , Rao S. Srinivasa
Published: October 2023

Malware has considerably increased recently, posing a serious security danger to both people and enterprises. In order to distinguish and stop the negative effects of malware, a variety of machine and deep learning approaches have been used to detect it. However, while extracting malware features, the feature‐to‐feature spatial hierarchy is not taken into account by the existing techniques and as a result, information is lost during the pooling operation. Hence, a modified capsule deep neural network was developed in which discriminative features are extracted from three channel image derived from malware binary with considering feature‐to‐feature spatial hierarchy. Also, conventional capsule deep neural network is modified by adding a global average pooling layer before fully connected layer thereby classified the dataset as malicious or benign without any loss of information. Moreover, these malwares were not accurately classified based on their families using existing variants of convolutional neural network (CNN) since malware family variants can modify due to minute changes in malware binaries. Hence, a hybrid deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) and long‐short‐term memory (LSTM) has been utilized that determine minute changes in malware binaries using LSTM without vanishing gradient issue and effectively perform malware family classification using DCNN. As a result, the proposed approach successfully identifies malware in executable files and categorizes malware into families with 98.5% accuracy.
Photo‐Induced Oxyamination of Alkenyl Acids towards Amino Lactones
Authors: Pan Changduo , Chen Dongdong , Zeng Miao , Tian Haoyang , Yu Jin‐Tao
Published: October 2023

Photo‐induced sulfonylamidation/lactonization of alkenyl acids with N‐sulfonylaminopyridinium salts is demonstrated to access sulfonamidylated lactones under mild and metal‐free conditions. This reaction features a broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance and easy operation, providing a simple and efficient protocol for the synthesis of sulfonamidylated lactones.
Carelessness in higher education: How the neoliberal university shapes the experiences of food insecure student‐parents
Authors: Sallee Margaret W. , Hine Joshua C. , Kohler Christopher W.
Published: October 2023

This qualitative case study explores how neoliberalism affects how food insecure student‐parents experience higher education. Drawing on interviews with administrators, student activists, and student‐parents at one U.S. research university, this article argues that neoliberalism's emphasis on revenue generation and a shift toward individualism has significant consequences for the most marginalized students, creating an environment in which the university provides few resources to support them. We suggest that campuses should take steps to dismantle the ethic of carelessness, a lack of attention to students' care responsibilities, that has pervaded higher education.

Practical Takeaways

Universities increasingly rely on philanthropy to support marginalized students, but the reach of these philanthropic efforts is limited. In some cases, outside groups put stipulations on the receipt of funds, which shapes university programs.

Although food insecurity has received increasing attention at research universities, student‐parents are often neglected in campuswide initiatives, leaving many to seek out supports on their own.
Local recurrence and metachronous multiple cancers after transoral nonrobotic surgery for pharyngeal and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Ushiro Koji , Watanabe Yoshiki , Kishimoto Yo , Kawai Yoshitaka , Fujimura Shintaro , Asato Ryo , Tsujimura Takashi , Hori Ryusuke , Kumabe Yohei , Yasuda Kaori , Tamaki Hisanobu , Iki Takehiro , Kitani Yoshiharu , Kurata Keisuke , Kojima Tsuyoshi , Takata Kuniaki , Kada Shinpei , Takebayashi Shinji , Shinohara Shogo , Hamaguchi Kiyomi , Miyazaki Masakazu , Ikenaga Tadashi , Maetani Toshiki , Harada Hiroyuki , Haji Tomoyuki , Omori Koichi
Published: October 2023

Background

Late laryngopharyngeal cancers after transoral surgery include not only local recurrences but also metachronous multiple cancers.

Methods

We compared clinical information, surgical outcomes, and late laryngopharyngeal cancers in patients who underwent transoral nonrobotic surgery for laryngopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma without lymph node metastases between 2015 and 2021 in a multicenter retrospective study.

Results

Four hundred and fifty‐seven patients were included. Positive surgical margins were found in 121 patients (26.5%). Twenty‐two patients (4.8%) received additional treatment. Positive horizontal margins of invasive carcinoma (p = 0.003) and positive horizontal margins of carcinoma in situ only (p = 0.032) were independent risk factors for local recurrence, and prior radiotherapy (p = 0.001) for metachronous multiple cancers. Local control was significantly worse without additional treatment (p = 0.049), but there was no significant difference in survival.

Conclusions

Patients with positive margins had an increased frequency of local recurrence, but salvage therapy was effective.
SAMD1 attenuates antiphospholipid syndrome‐induced pregnancy complications
Authors: An Ran , Yang Yanqi , Liu Lei , Li Peiling
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study was intended to investigate the effect of SAMD1 on antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)‐induced pregnancy complications in mice.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression of SAMD1 in APS patients and healthy controls was detected by qRT‐PCR and western blot. Anti‐B2GPI and ACA levels were tested by ELISA, MMP‐9, iNOS, ICAM‐1 and MCP‐1 mRNA and protein levels determined by qRT‐PCR and western blot, cellular senescence detected by β‐galactosidase staining, cell proliferation ability detected by CCK‐8 assay, cell viability detected by trypan blue staining, cell mobility detected by Transwell, and cell angiogenesis ability detected by matrigel tube formation assay. An APS pregnant mouse model was constructed, and the embryo absorption rate was calculated.

Results

SAMD1 expression was low in serum of APS patients, which was correlated with the history of thrombosis and the number of adverse pregnancies. Anti‐B2GPI and ACA levels were increased in APS. The expressions of MMP‐9, iNOS, ICAM‐1, and MCP‐1 were also significantly upregulated in HUVECs treated with APS serum. APS promoted HUVEC senescence and inhibited cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. Overexpression of SAMD1 reversed the above results. Experiments on the APS pregnant mouse model confirmed that overexpression of SAMD1 reduced the rate of fetal loss.

Conclusion

SAMD1 may reduce APS‐induced embryo loss by regulating cellular senescence, proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis.
Two cases of pelvic hematoma after prostatic urethral lift surgery
Authors: Fujishima Yosuke , Furuta Akira , Kawamura Tatsuya , Machida Arisa , Igarashi Taro , Maekawa Shigekatsu , Kato Renpei , Kanehira Mitsugu , Kimura Takahiro , Obara Wataru
Published: October 2023

Introduction

There are few reports of pelvic hematoma after prostatic urethral lift. Here, we report two cases of pelvic hematoma in Japan.

Case presentation

The first case was a 71‐year‐old man with benign prostatic hyperplasia who underwent prostatic urethral lift. Although the procedure was uneventful, he experienced lower abdominal pain the day after the operation. CT revealed a hematoma in the right pelvis; however, it was manageable with conservative treatment. The second case was a 68‐year‐old man. The procedure was uneventful; however, 6 days after the operation, a subcutaneous hematoma appeared in the lower abdomen. CT revealed a hematoma in the left pelvis. We then performed pelvic hematoma removal surgery.

Conclusions

Pelvic hematomas after PUL may requires attention, particularly in men with the narrow pelvises. Appropriate compression of the prostate and a high lithotomy position procedure could effectively avoid the occurrence of pelvic hematomas.
Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate as a secondary surgery following prostatic urethral lift
Authors: Nishino Takato , Endo Fumiyasu , Nakama Daiki , Sakurai Masato , Tominaga Koki , Fukagawa Eri , Sano Masayuki , Narimoto Kazutaka , Shimbo Masaki , Hattori Kazunori
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Prostatic urethral lift is a treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia, yet information on surgeries following this procedure is scarce.

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old man with persistent urinary retention following prostatic urethral lift underwent a secondary holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. The morcellation procedure, complicated by the presence of implants from the previous surgery, broke the morcellator blade. The fragmented blade was successfully retrieved without any organ damage. Postoperatively, the patient encountered no complications and showed improvement in his urinary symptoms.

Conclusion

This case highlights the potential risk of device breakage when a secondary surgery, specifically the morcellation process, is performed following prostatic urethral lift. Care must be taken to prevent interaction between the implants and the morcellator. Our case demonstrates the efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate as a salvage surgical intervention for patients in whom prostatic urethral lift has failed.
Direct Preservation in Alcohol Causes Deformation of Taxonomic Key‐Characters in Anostraca (Crustacea)
Authors: Beladjal Lynda , Mertens Johan
Published: October 2023

Branchipus visnyai Kertész, 1956 is a synonym for B. schaefferi Fisher, 1834. Fixation of males of a B. schaefferi population in 70% alcohol induced swelling of the antennal parts, which is typical for B. visnyai. Fixation in 4% formaline, on the other hand, retains the normal B. schaefferi antennal morphology. The key‐characteristics of B. visnyai are not observed in living specimens nor in material preserved in 4% formaline.
Trace Metal Bioaccumulation in Epibenthic Macroinvertebrates (EMI) from the San Pedro Shelf, California
Authors: Maurer Don , Phillips Charles , Robertson George
Published: October 2023

Trace metal/metalloid (As, Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Se, Zn) bioaccumulation was measured over a period of ten years (1985–1995) in five species of epibenthic macroinvertebrates (EMI) from the San Pedro Shelf, California. Four of the species are numerical dominants in the Southern California Bight (SCB) and two species are commercially harvested. Among three echinoderms, a predatory sea star yielded highest tissue concentrations compared to a sea cucumber and a sea urchin, and concentrations measured in a mantid shrimp exceeded those from a prawn. Comparison of trace metal bioaccumulation from the study area, including the ocean outfall, and elsewhere indicated that bioaccumulation in local EMI was generally low. Measurements from an outfall station and two reference stations were used to evaluate the spatial and temporal relationship between trace metal bioaccumulation and the wastewater discharge. It was concluded that there was no spatial or temporal relationship between EMI trace metal bioaccumulation and the discharge.
Reanalysis of Models and an Improved Model of Biomass Size Spectra
Authors: Han Bo‐Ping , Straskraba Milan
Published: October 2023

Our reanalysis aimed at understanding the regularity in empirical biomass size spectra (BSS) suggests that the construction of BSS depends of the size interval and size scales used and different definitions of BSS in literature are therefore very different.

Existing empirical models of BSS can be fitted perfectly to the observed data, but the biological basis of the fitted parameters is not explained and comparison and interpretation of the findings is therefore difficult. Parameters of mechanistic models of BSS have a biological background and are interpretable. Discrete mechanistic models based on Lindeman's trophic chain theory assume a constant ratio of size (or body mass) in two adjacent trophic levels. However, this biomass ratio is not comparable with that in two adjacent (logarithmic) size intervals in the measured biomass size spectra. The continuous model by Thiebaux and Dickie (1992) is based on the discrete model by Boudreau et al. (1991). We show how the validity of the transformation of a discrete form into a continous form depends on the size ranges of prey and predator population. The model by Platt and Denman (1977) does not represent a continuous formulation due to the use of normalized biomass defined in logarithmic size intervals. We suggest to eliminate the use of trophic levels and normalized biomass.

On the basis of the reanalysis we formulate and improved continuous model based on the model by Silvert and Platt (1978). The model is based on Eulerian strategy which appears more adequate for the problem than the previously used Lagrangian strategy. The model appears to be able to demonstrate the regularity in observed BSS.
New Approaches to Mesozooplankton Production Estimates against the Background of Food Web Considerations for the Bornholm Basin (Southern Baltic Proper)
Authors: Dahmen Karl
Published: October 2023

Mesozooplankton production was estimated by using a new sampling technique and two alternative calculation methods. In essence, production estimates are based on significantly higher abundances. The contribution of juvenile stages to copepod and fish dynamics was generally low, so that the omission of juvenile stages in budgets will result in a small error. The situations reported in this study present a unique food web szenario, which in detail, however, was strongly dependent on methodology. Furthermore, relations between trophic levels were considered with respect to vertical distribution.
Effect of Algal Food on Animal Prey Consumption Rates in the Omnivorous Copepod, Mesocyclops thermocyclopoides
Authors: Kumar Ram , Rao T. Ramakrishna
Published: October 2023

We measured the food consumption rates in the omnivorous copepod Mesocyclops thermocyclopoides on different animal prey types in the presence of, and in the absence of one of the algal food types, the small, nonmotile Chlorella, or the large, motile Chlorogonium. Animal prey tested included different zooplankton species covering a size range of 88 to 1446 μm. The number of animal prey consumed was inversely proportional, but the total weight consumed was directly proportional, to the body size and dry weight of the prey item. There was a significant reduction in animal prey consumption in the presence of algae, being higher with cladoceran prey than with ciliates and rotifers, and in the presence of Chlorogonium than in the presence of Chlorella. Cannibalism in M. thermocyclopoides was low when algal food was available.
Ibutilide: A New Class III Antiarrhythmic Agent
Authors: Cropp Jacquelyn S. , Antal Ellen G. , Talbert Robert L.
Published: October 2023

Ibutilide fumarate is a new antiarrhythmic agent recently approved for the conversion of atrial flutter (AFl) and atrial fibrillation (AF) to normal sinus rhythm. A class III agent in the Vaughan Williams classification system, ibutilide prolongs cardiac repolarization by activating a slow inward, predominantly sodium current. An alternative or additive mechanism to prolong repolarization may be blockade of the outward delayed rectifier potassium rapid current. Ibutilide is administered intravenously, and approximately 40% of the drug in serum is protein bound. It is eliminated through hepatic metabolism by undefined enzyme systems, and it appears that none of the metabolites contributes significantly to antiarrhythmic activity. The elimination half‐life of ibutilide ranges from 2–12 hours. When administered by 10‐minute infusion, ibutilide 1 mg (approximately 0.015 mg/kg) resulted in conversion to sinus rhythm in 24–58% of patients with AFl and 20–32% with AF, compared with about 5% for placebo. Administering a second dose of 0.5–1 mg improved the overall response rates to approximately 75% and 45%, respectively. In randomized comparative trials, ibutilide was more effective than sotalol in converting AFl (70% vs 19%) and AF (44% vs 11%) and more effective than procainamide (76% vs 12% and 51% vs 20%, respectively). The time to conversion in most trials was usually 20–30 minutes. Nausea is the most common noncardiac adverse effect (< 2%). Nonsustained and sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia occurred in 2.7–6.7% and 1.7% of patients, respectively.
Proton Pump Inhibitors and Acid‐Related Diseases
Authors: Sachs George
Published: October 2023

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are targeted to the gastric acid pump, H+,K+‐adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase). The drugs accumulate in the acid space of the parietal cell and convert to active sulfenamide by an acid‐catalyzed reaction. Consequent covalent inhibition of H+,K+‐ATPase blocks the final step of acid secretion, hence the PPIs omeprazole, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole are more effective than histamine2‐receptor antagonists (H2RAs) in controlling acid secretion. Preclinical short‐ and long‐term clinical surveillance data show these drugs to be well tolerated and safe. The PPIs heal the lesions of gastroesophageal reflux disease and lessen symptoms more effectively and more quickly than the H2RAs, and are effective' and faster acting for peptic ulcer disease. Helicobacter pylori is causally implicated in the majority of peptic ulcers and in atrophic gastritis. Since PPIs, but not H2RAs, are synergistic with antibiotics in eradicating H. pylori, their use is appropriate in all acid‐related diseases since all patients who are H. pylori positive require eradication as well as healing.
Rational Drug Use in the Treatment of Depression
Authors: Cohen Lawrence J.
Published: October 2023

New drugs are being developed for the management of depression in response to the growing awareness of the prevalence and disability associated with the disorder and the need for agents with improved side effect profiles. All antidepressants are equally effective for treating uncomplicated unipolar depression without psychotic features. For patients with atypical depression with prominent anxiety, agitation, sleep loss, and irritability, monoamine oxidase inhibitors are the first choice. Data are accumulating supporting the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in these depressive subtypes. Factors to consider when choosing an antidepressant include spectrum of adverse effects, long‐term tolerability dosing schedule, clinically significant drug interactions, underlying medical conditions, earlier response to therapy, and pharmacoeconomics. Based on these criteria, it is suggested that a trial with the SSRIs be attempted first. Venlafaxine and nefazodone are newer agents with mechanisms of action that have advantages over tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Choosing a drug that is effective, tolerable, and convenient will improve the likelihood of achieving and maintaining a full remission. It will also decrease the morbidity and mortality of this very treatable disease.
Variable Furosemide Absorption and Poor Predictability of Response in Elderly Patients
Authors: Murray Michael D. , Haag Kathy M. , b́lack Paula K. , Hall Stephen D. , Brater D. Craig
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To determine the between‐ and within‐patient variability of furosemide bioavailability and natriuretic response, and whether four marketed products differ in bioavailability and response.

Design. Open‐label, crossover study.

Setting. General clinical research center at an academic medical center.

Patients. Convenience sample of 17 patients age 65 ± 6 years receiving diuretics for the treatment of hypertension or congestive heart failure.

Intervention. Each patient received each of five furosemide products (one intravenous and four oral tablet formulations) twice in random order for a total of 10 treatments.

Measurements and Main Results. Measurements included absolute bioavailability using cumulative amounts of urinary furosemide collected over 8 hours after oral versus intravenous dosing, and cumulative amounts of urinary sodium. Extensive between‐ and within‐patient variability in all measured values rendered any differences among the products neither clinically nor statistically significant. Mean (± SD) bioavailability was 49 ± 17% (range 12–112%) and coefficients of variation with different products were from 25–43%. Coefficients of variation for urinary furosemide excretion and urinary sodium excretion were also large, 25–42% and 23–51%, respectively. Multivariate analyses that incorporated between‐ and within‐patient effects failed to reveal differences among the products for bioavailability (F=1.04, p=0.403), urinary furosemide excretion (F=1.09, p=0.371), or urinary sodium excretion (F=0.97, p=0.448). Correlation coefficients were 0.81–0.85 for the rates of sodium and furosemide excretion, and half‐maximum response using a sigmoid Emax model did not differ among products.

Conclusion. Although furosemide concentration in urinary and natriuretic responses showed good correlation, variability in bioavailability considerably affects the drug's excretion into urine. Variability in absorption both among patients and within an individual patient is great and overwhelms any differences in bioavailability among approved furosemide products. Switching from one formulation to another will not likely result in any predictable change in patient response.
Acute Management of Ventricular Arrhythmias: Role of Antiarrhythmic Agents
Authors: Singh Bramah N.
Published: October 2023

When treating life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias such as symptomatic ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation (VT/VF), the nature of the arrhythmia must be precisely defined and the approach must be tailored to it. For hemodynamically unstable ventricular arrhythmias, DC cardioversion or high‐energy defibrillation remains the approach of choice. Determining the specific role of intravenous drugs in acute conversion of VT/VF and the most appropriate long‐term therapy (pharmacologic or nonpharmacologic) to prevent recurrence can be difficult. Pharmacologic conversion of stable VT/VF presents an even greater challenge, as the role of lidocaine, considered the first‐line agent for many decades, is now being reevaluated. Lidocaine appears to be effective in converting no more than 20% of stable VTs, compared with 70% for intravenous sotalol. The precise efficacies of parenteral procainamide, β‐blockers, and newer class III agents, including intravenous amiodarone, remain to be defined; however, intravenous amiodarone, available recently, can control unstable, recurrent VT/VF that is resistant to lidocaine or procainamide. A standard regimen of concomitant intravenous and oral amiodarone may be given for rapid and sustained control, and allows oral amiodarone to be continued in a significant number of patients.
Class III Antiarrhythmic Agents: The Next Wave
Authors: Bauman Jerry L.
Published: October 2023

Class III antiarrhythmic agents are characterized by their ability to prolóong action potential and increase refractoriness. The use of these drugs, namely, sotalol hydrochloride and amiodarone hydrochloride, is rising. Both agents are effective for treating a range of ventricular arrhythmias, and amiodarone in particular has been linked with improved mortality in certain patient populations compared with class I agents. Sotalol and amiodarone have individual, complex pharmacologic profiles. As a result, there are also differences in their side effects and proarrhythmic actions. Sotalol is associated with side effects related to β‐adrenergic blockade and an incidence of proarrhythmia similar to that of class Ia agents. Amiodarone is associated with pulmonary toxicity and other adverse events, but rarely induces torsades de pointes. These agents must be differentiated from pure class III potassium channel blockers, such as the dextro isomer form of sotalol, which is linked to increased mortality compared with placebo in post‐myocardial infarction patients with reduced ventricular function or a history of heart failure.